A 42-year-old man, identified as Joshua Lee Sword, was arrested early November 30th after leading law enforcement on a high-speed chase through the streets of Summerville. The arrest culminated from a series of traffic violations, including driving with a suspended license, failure to stop at a stop sign, and reckless driving.

According to a report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office, the incident began around 1:16 AM when a deputy spotted a silver Jeep Commander, commonly associated with Sword, traveling erratically near Silver Hill Road. After observing Sword’s vehicle make a dangerous left turn into a driveway, the deputy turned his patrol car around, only to see the Jeep back on the road, continuing westward at speeds exceeding 80 mph.

The pursuit intensified as Sword ignored multiple traffic signals and exhibited reckless driving behavior, swerving across lanes and failing to stop at a stop sign at the intersection with Highway 100. Upon finally bringing the vehicle to a halt, the deputy exited his patrol car and ordered Sword to exit the vehicle. After complying, Sword was placed under arrest.

During a search, deputies discovered a plastic bag containing a crystal-like substance, later identified as methamphetamine, in Sword’s possession. Further investigation revealed that both Sword and his passenger, Christopher Stephens, were on felony probation. Sword exhibited signs of drug influence, prompting officers to administer a blood test. He was subsequently transported to Chattooga County Detention without any further incident.

Sword was charged with multiple charges, including DUI drugs, possession of methamphetamine, and tampering with evidence, among others.