Attempted traffic stop turns to vehicle pursuit

A simple trafficstop turned into drug charges.

While heading north on Old Hwy. 5, Wednesday, March 4, Sgt. Harold Patterson and Capt. Michael Shepard of the Gilmer County Sheriff’s Office spotted a blue sport bike without functioning headlights or taillights, turning off Legion Road heading south, according to an incident report. Patterson turned around and approached the motorcycle as it turned into the parking lot of Tim-Buk-Tu where Patterson attempted to conduct a traffic stop.

The driver, later identified as Angel Suarez Jr., of Powder Springs, maneuvered around the gas pumps and parked cars and continued south on Old 5 at a high rate of speed, according to the report.

As deputies rounded the curve in the 2800 block of Old Hwy. 5 South, they observed that Suarez had wrecked the motorcycle and was fleeing on foot. 

Patterson caught up with Suarez near the residence of 2837, drew his Electronic Control Device and gave Suarez a verbal command to stop. As Suarez approached, Patterson attempted to use the device but it was ineffective due to the heavy jacket Suarez was wearing. 

Suarez advanced on Patterson as the deputy attempted to gain control. Both Patterson and Shepard fought with Suarez until Deputy Ellington and Deputy Pim arrived on scene to assist, according to the incident report.

Once in handcuffs, deputies found a pocketknife and 12 grams of methamphetamines on his person.

Suarez was transported to Kennestone Hospital where he received treatment for his injuries in the motorcycle wreck and was later transported the Gilmer County Detention Center where it was learned he had a warrant out of Henry County.