Suspect in Louisiana Arrested with Assistance of Multiple Agencies After Allegedly Physically Resisting, Injuring an Officer, and Fleeing During Traffic Stop

Vernon Parish, Louisiana – A suspect in Louisiana has been arrested with the assistance of multiple agencies after allegedly physically resisting, injuring an officer, and fleeing during a traffic stop.

Leesville Police Department stated on April 19, 2023, that on April 18, at approximately 5:15 p.m., they received a call of a theft from a local gas station. A Leesville police officer discovered the suspect vehicle on Belview Road and performed a traffic stop after receiving a description and license plate number of the vehicle the suspect left in. The suspect reportedly immediately exited his vehicle and began walking toward the officer, refusing to comply with any of the officer’s directions. When the officer attempted to detain the subject, he refused to cooperate and physically resisted, injuring the officer. The suspect was able to re-enter his vehicle and flee the scene.

During a brief automobile pursuit, the suspect pulled into a nearby church parking lot and reportedly refused to exit his vehicle or comply with the officer’s commands. The subject was eventually forcefully removed from the vehicle by Leesville Police Officers and Vernon Parish Sheriff’s Office deputies. The suspect allegedly continued to physically resist and assault the officers, but the officers were eventually able to take the suspect into custody.

Freddie Harris, 42, of Leesville, Louisiana, has been identified as the suspect. The inquiry is still ongoing, and charges are pending.
Chief Westlake thanked the Vernon Parish Sheriff’s Office and the Louisiana State Police for their assistance in managing this incident. Being professional and cooperating resulted in a swift resolution to this incident.

An arrest is an indication that probable cause exists to believe the subject was involved in the offense alleged. A person is presumed innocent until proven guilty.