MADISON COUNTY, Fla. (WTXL) - A man and his accomplice are facing multiple charges after a traffic stop turned into a chase that nearly injured a local deputy.
John Needham Jr., 42, and Lauren Owensby, 31, were arrested by the Madison County Sheriff's Office on Nov. 21.
On Nov. 21 at about 8:30 a.m., deputies conducted a traffic stop on C.R. 255 North near the intersection of Kel Lane.
When deputies began to take action for the traffic violation, they were informed that Needham had an active arrest warrant for previous traffic violations.
Deputies told Needham to get out of his vehicle, however he drove off, nearly hitting a MCSO deputy.
A vehicle pursuit ensued until Needham drove his vehicle through a fence and wood line causing it to become disabled. He then fled on foot.
A perimeter was set up and K-9 was deployed to track Needham. The K-9 track led deputies across multiple fences and fields in a direction toward the Lee Jiffy Store.
Needham was then seen getting into another car driven by Owensby in the Jiffy Store parking lot, before the car drove off.
Deputies followed the car to a home near N.E. Peach Tree Street, where ultimately Needham and Owensby were taken into custody.
Needham is being charged with flee/attempt to elude, assault on a law enforcement officer, resist officer, driving while license suspended, and an arrest warrant for a previous traffic violation.
Owensby is being charged with aiding in an escape and child abuse.
