Last Updated on September 18, 2024 4:37 pm
MOUNTAIN CITY, TN –
On September 12th, 2024, MCPD Officers acquired information in reference to a reported stolen vehicle from Unicoi County with the utilization of Flock Safety.
Quickly the vehicle was located. Officers attempted to conduct a traffic stop on the stolen vehicle in the area of Food Lion on South Shady St. However, the driver of the vehicle reportedly failed to comply ultimately striking an MCPD Unit and fleeing from Officers.
MCPD Officers pursued the stolen vehicle Southbound on Highway 421 South. Upon approach of the intersection of Hwy 421 S & Modock Rd. the stolen vehicle suddenly caught on fire.
The vehicle then came to a stop prior to the North Carolina state line and Officers were able to apprehend the driver without further incident.
The driver of the vehicle was identified as, JUSTIN BANNER. After an on scene investigation was concluded JUSTIN BANNER was placed under arrest and is now facing numerous charges.
This incident marks yet another successful collaboration between law enforcement and technology in apprehending a dangerous individual.
We would also like to give thanks to the Trade Volunteer Fire Department for a quick response where Firefighters successfully extinguished the vehicle fire.
JUSTIN BANNER was transported to the Johnson County Jail and has been charged with the following:
• FELONY THEFT
• FELONY EVADING
• AGGRAVATED ASSAULT ON FIRST RESPONDER
• FELONY POSSESSION OF SCHEDULE VI DRUGS
• RECKLESS ENDANGERMENT (x2)
• POSSESSION OF PROHIBITED WEAPON BY FELON
• DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE
• DRIVING WHILE LICENSE SUSPENDED
• FAILURE TO EXERCISE DUE CARE
• FAILURE TO MAINTAIN LANE OF TRAVEL
* All persons accused of a criminal act are presumed innocent, unless proven guilty in the court of law*
