A high-speed pursuit through Alachua County leads to the capture of a suspect with a history of violent crime.
A dramatic chase unfolded on Wednesday, ending in the arrest of a dangerous wanted felon after a patrol car was rammed and a K-9 unit was deployed.
Alachua County Sheriff’s Office detectives were tipped off that Trever Strawder, a suspect believed to be involved in recent violent crimes outside the county, was in the area. Strawder was also thought to be armed.
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When Detective Clayton Litzkow spotted a gray Nissan Altima believed to be driven by Strawder, he attempted a traffic stop on SW Williston Road. The vehicle initially stopped but then sped off, hitting another motorist before continuing to flee at a high rate of speed.
To prevent further danger to the public, deputies performed a tactical maneuver to stop the fleeing vehicle. The suspect then rammed a patrol car before his vehicle was disabled, but the chase wasn’t over yet. Strawder, the sole occupant, jumped out and fled on foot into a wooded area.
Despite repeated commands to stop, Strawder kept running until an ASO K-9 caught up with him, ending the chase.
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Strawder was wanted on three active warrants, including two for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and one for battery on specified personnel. He also had a suspended license. During the arrest, deputies recovered a bag with items that are believed to be linked to other ongoing investigations.
Strawder now faces new charges, including fleeing and eluding, resisting without violence, driving with a suspended license, and leaving the scene of a crash, in addition to his previous warrants. He has a history of violent offenses, including robbery with a firearm and battery on law enforcement.
The Sheriff’s Office praised the deputies involved, highlighting their quick thinking and teamwork in bringing a dangerous situation to a safe resolution.
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