ALEXANDRIA, La. (2/19/2024) – A multi-agency pursuit of a stolen vehicle ended in Alexandria on February 18, 2025, around 5:45 PM, leading to three arrests. Deputies from the Rapides Area Drug Enforcement (RADE) Unit spotted a blue Nissan Sentra matching the description of a stolen vehicle from Bossier City while patrolling the Wardville area.
Deputies confirmed the vehicle as stolen and attempted a traffic stop, but the driver refused to stop and led police on a high-speed chase. The pursuit ended in Alexandria when the car’s transmission failed, forcing it to a stop.
Suspects Fled on Foot
The driver, Destin James, 33, and front passenger, Terrence Swafford, 35, exited the car and fled. Swafford was seen dropping a handgun while running. Deputies and K-9 units quickly caught and arrested both men. Demetrius Tucker, 38, the rear passenger, was detained after a brief struggle.
Guns, Drugs, and Stolen Property Found
A search of the vehicle revealed a plastic bag containing cocaine, along with two additional firearms in the trunk. The gun dropped by Swafford was confirmed stolen through the Alexandria Police Department.
Charges and Bond Information
- Destin James faces five charges, including possession of a stolen vehicle, flight from an officer, and illegal carrying of a firearm with drugs. His bond is set at $76,500.
- Terrence Swafford faces five charges, including possession of a stolen firearm and aggravated assault with a firearm (warrant through APD). His bond is set at $225,000.
- Demetrius Tucker faces three charges, including resisting an officer. His bond is set at $11,000.
A multi-agency pursuit of a stolen vehicle involved deputies from RPSO, LSP, and APD. The RPSO-ATF Task Force assisted in the firearms investigation.
The RADE Unit, which targets drug trafficking in Central Louisiana, continues to investigate. Anyone with drug-related tips can contact RADE via Facebook at Rapides Area Drug Enforcement.
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