RICHLAND COUNTY, S.C. — A man has been taken into custody after running from deputies in a stolen vehicle and then crashing in Richland County.
According to the Richland County Sheriff's Department, K-9 Deputy Samantha Ramirez had attempted to pull over a vehicle that was reported stolen on Saturday but the driver refused to stop.
Investigators said 27-year-old Justin Chappell led Deputy Ramirez on a short chase before crashing into a tree at Shakespeare Road and Baxter Drive. After the crash, he continued his escape attempt, however, and fought both Deputy Ramirez and her K-9 partner Kodak.
More deputies soon arrived and Chappell was taken into custody on charges of possession of a stolen vehicle, possession of stolen goods, failure to stop for blue lights, possession of methamphetamines, hit-and-run, resisting arrest, and cruelty to a police dog.
According to the sheriff's department, Chappell was out on bond from incidents in neighboring jurisdictions at the time of Saturday's arrests.
Authorities said he also had a warrant out for failure to appear in court on charges of burglary and grand larceny.
Chappell, who is currently receiving treatment for injuries sustained in his apprehension, will be taken to Alvin S. Glenn Detention Center when he is released from the hospital.
Deputy Ramirez was checked out at the hospital and has since been released. Her K-9 partner was not hurt.
