BUTLER TWP — A Fenelton man is jailed today on felony and other charges after leading police on a short car chase over several roads in and out of the township.

Butler Township police arrested Michael J. Zaludek, 26, who did not have a valid driver’s license, about 1:15 a.m. today when officers noticed his car’s registration was expired and tried to pull him over at Hansen Avenue and Route 8.

But instead of stopping, police said, he drove away in his 2005 Hyundai Elantra.

At least three police cars eventually joined in the chase that led to the township’s Grandview section and traveled onto Old Plank Road, Pittsburgh Pike, West Metzgar Avenue, McQuistion Road and past the Sunnyview complex.

Speeds reached 50 mph during the chase through residential neighborhoods during which Zaludek ran a half dozen stop signs, said police Lt. Matthew Pearson.

The chase eventually took the pursued and pursers into the city on Wallula, Center and East Boyd Avenues, where police were able to maneuver their cars and forced Zaludek to stop. Butler police also assisted.

A front-seat passenger jumped out of the car and ran away, Pearson said. Police continue to look for that passenger.

Guns drawn, police arrested Zaludek and briefly detained two backseat passengers. Those passengers were later released and not cited.

A search of the car later turned up a syringe, allegedly belonging to Zaludek.

Police charged the defendant with a felony count of fleeing or attempting to elude police. He also is charged with reckless endangerment and driving with a suspended license-DUI related, and possession of drug paraphernalia. Additionally, he faces several other traffic offenses including driving at an unsafe speed, reckless driving and six stop sign violations.

Zaludek was placed in the Butler County Prison to await arraignment. He also is being held on a probation violation.