A vehicle exceeding the speed limit caused a Cumberland County sheriff's deputy to attempt a traffic stop, and after a short vehicle and foot pursuit, netted items related to recovery of a rifle recently reported stolen in a residential burglary.
James Michael Richards, 35, 5339 Mayland Rd., is charged with theft of property, initiation of the process to manufacture methamphetamine, evading arrest, unlawful possession of a weapon, possession of drug paraphernalia and driving on a revoked license.
Bond was set at $14,500 and Richards was scheduled to appear in General Sessions Court this week.
Deputy David Moore wrote in his report he observed a 1996 Chevrolet Tahoe traveling above the speed limit on Hwy. 70 W, but when he activated his blue lights, the vehicle continued traveling into town, turning onto Sparta Dr.
Upon activating his siren, the vehicle turned onto Baker Lane and traveled to the rear of Maranatha Trailer Park, coming to a stop behind one of the residences, Moore reported.
The driver then exited the vehicle and fled, on foot, toward a wooded area. After a chase of about 75 yards, the suspect was apprehended.
Moore was joined on the scene by K-9 Deputy Danny Stone and Crossville Police Pt. James White. Officers recovered a rifle, $406 in cash, a set of digital scales, red phosphorus and clear plastic bags.
As the investigation unfolded, it was learned the rifle belonged to Shane Brown who had been the victim of a recent burglary at his home.
Deputies seized the vehicle and cash because of the drug-related charges.
