Before 1:30 Saturday morning, a Sheriff Deputy tried to pull over a Dodge Caravan, which then sped away, reaching speeds of 70-75 mph. The vehicle swung side to side once, hitting water-covered roadways, and eventually went through a ditch and landed in a field.
Three passengers exited the vehicle and fled into the field. The deputy then pursued on foot. Two of them, juveniles, and 18-year-old Blade Miller were eventually apprehended and placed in handcuffs.
With backup, deputies contacted EMS, who evaluated the individuals. A large odor of alcohol was noticed by deputies, but no contraband was located. When Miller was questioned about who was driving and who owned the vehicle, he stated he did not know. Deputies suspected the vehicle was stolen because all three occupants were out of Edwards County, and the vehicle was registered in Crossville.
When registration was run through dispatch, deputies contacted the owner, who confirmed the vehicle was missing.
Per the affidavit, Miller was charged with Theft over $500, Possession of a Stolen Vehicle, Criminal Damage to Property over $500, Aggravated Fleeing and Eluding, Endangering the life and health of a minor, Resisting a Peace Officer, and Illegal Consumption of Alcohol by a minor. He was also given three citations: Unlicensed, Improper Lane Usage, and Speeding 21-25 mph over the limit.
Miller will have a Preliminary hearing on April 6 at 1 pm.