Murphy – A local man was arrested on drug and other charges after he allegedly fled a traffic stop and led pursuing deputies at speeds up to 120 mph.
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At 11:12 a.m. Dec. 12, Cherokee County sheriff’s Deputy Dylan Vallee attempted a traffic stop on a Chevrolet SUV for an equipment violation on U.S. 64 West near McDonald’s restaurant.
The woman driving leaped from the vehicle, while the male passenger took the controls and led sheriff’s deputies and Murphy police officers on a vehicle pursuit from Hiwassee Street at U.S. 64 West and ending at 275 Bishop Lane – a distance of about 5 miles. Speeds at times reached over 120 mph, authorities alleged.
Joshua Lowe, who was identified as the operator of the vehicle, was arrested at the scene. A large quantity of methamphetamine and marijuana were confiscated from him and the vehicle at the time of his arrest, authorities alleged.
A female passenger was released without charge Lowe was charged with the following:
- Felony flee/elude with a motor vehicle.
- Felony traffic methamphetamine.
- Felony possession with intent to manufacture, sell and distribute marijuana.
- Misdemeanor charge of schedule II and IV controlled substances and drug paraphernalia.
The total weight of methamphetamine seized was 32.1 grams. The total weight of marijuana was 102.4 grams.
Lowe was brought before a magistrate, where he was advised he was to be held on a 48-hour no bond due to him already being out on bond.