Yesterday, at 1:40 p.m., a patrol deputy was traveling northbound on 7th Ave Ct E approaching 168th St E in Spanaway when he noticed a 90’s Chevy pickup driving towards him. The deputy checked out the rear license plate as the vehicle passed him and learned that it belonged on a wrecked/destroyed 1995 Ford Explorer.
The deputy turned around and followed the suspected stolen pickup to a residence that is well-known to law enforcement for stolen vehicles, drugs and shootings. The suspect got out of the vehicle, refused the deputy’s commands to stop, and climbed over the fence.
A foot pursuit ensued and the deputy repeatedly warned the suspect to stop or he would be tased. As the suspect attempted to climb another fence, the deputy deployed his taser. It was only minimally effective because the probes did not penetrate the suspect’s clothing.
The chase continued, but when the suspect tried to climb yet another fence, the deputy grabbed his arm, pulled him to the ground and handcuffed him.
The suspect told the deputy that he started the vehicle with a screwdriver, and he said he fled because he thought it was probably stolen. He had a live round of ammunition in his pocket, even though he is a convicted felon. The deputy was unable to locate a firearm.
A records check revealed that the pickup had been stolen the previous day. There was a towel wrapped around the ignition to hide the damage, and there was a large screwdriver on the driver’s seat.
The 32-year-old suspect was evaluated by medical personnel and then booked into jail.
Prosecutors charged him with unlawful possession of a stolen vehicle and resisting arrest. He was released on his personal recognizance (promise to appear). He must report to Pre-Trial Services within 24 hours of his release or a bench warrant may be issued.