David M. Higgins II, Publisher/Editor posted: " In a dramatic turn of events on the evening of February 4, La Plata law enforcement officers engaged in a high-speed chase that culminated in the apprehension of three individuals and the seizure of illicit substances and a firearm. The incident unfolded" The Southern Maryland Chronicle
In a dramatic turn of events on the evening of February 4, La Plata law enforcement officers engaged in a high-speed chase that culminated in the apprehension of three individuals and the seizure of illicit substances and a firearm. The incident unfolded at approximately 9:11 pm when patrol officers attempted to conduct a traffic stop near Crain Highway and Talbot Street after discovering that the vehicle's registration plates did not match the car, which was later identified as stolen from a neighboring county.
The driver, identified as 24-year-old Shawn Ray Elswick of Riverdale, along with passengers Kirk Rodriquez Casper, also 24, from Washington, D.C., and 18-year-old Monica Sanchez-Zavala of no fixed address, initially refused to comply with officers' commands, triggering a pursuit. Despite the deployment of stop sticks on three separate occasions—in the vicinities of Billingsley Road, the Hughesville bypass, and finally, with the aid of the St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office, in Charlotte Hall—the vehicle continued its escape attempt, its tires progressively deflating due to the stop sticks.
Monica Sanchez-Zavala, 18, of no fixed address
Kirk Rodriquez Casper, 24, of Washington, D.C.
Shawn Ray Elswick, 24, of Riverdale
The relentless chase came to a halt when the vehicle, crippled by flat tires, struck a median and became disabled. In a desperate attempt to evade capture, all three occupants fled the vehicle on foot but were swiftly apprehended by the authorities.
Upon searching the vehicle, officers uncovered a loaded firearm and a substantial amount of methamphetamine, elevating the seriousness of the incident. Further investigation revealed that one of the occupants had an active arrest warrant from a nearby county, adding to the charges faced by the trio.
Elswick, the driver, faces multiple charges, including theft, possession of a loaded firearm in a vehicle, illegal possession of ammunition, and numerous traffic violations. His accomplices, Casper and Sanchez-Zavala, have been charged with theft, possession of a loaded firearm in a vehicle, and possession of drugs. All three are currently being held without bond at the Charles County Detention Center, pending further legal proceedings.
The incident underscores the relentless efforts of law enforcement to combat crime and ensure public safety, highlighting the risks officers face daily. The successful apprehension of the suspects and the seizure of illegal contraband are testament to the vigilance and dedication of the officers involved. Officer Perry is leading the ongoing investigation, signaling a continued commitment to justice and the upholding of law and order in the community.
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