Fugitive Flees From Felony Traffic Stop In Ormond, Crashes Into Patrol Car

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Ormond Beach, FL - A fugitive tried to flee from a felony traffic stop on Monday night in Ormond Beach and crashed into an unmarked Flagler County Sheriff's vehicle before being arrested.

On July 7, 25-year-old Richard Westervelt was being held at the Flagler County Detention Facility when he complained of chest pains. A judge authorized his temporary release so Flagler taxpayers wouldn't be responsible for any of his medical bills, then he was brought to Florida Hospital Flagler. Once he was medically cleared, Westervelt tried to flee from the hospital and knocked over a nurse in the process. Charges have been submitted to the State Attorney's Office on the 25-year-old for felony battery on a health service provider.

The Ormond Beach Police Department, with help from the Flagler Sheriff's Office, attempted a felony traffic stop on Westervelt in Ormond Beach on the night of July 11 on a Flagler County warrant. He was wanted for bond revocation, fleeing and attempting to elude law enforcement, unlawful possession of a controlled substance, possession of hydrocodone, possession of cannabis less than 20 grams, possession of drug paraphernalia, and knowingly operating a vehicle with a suspended license. Westervelt fled the scene and crashed into an unmarked FCSO vehicle. Luckily, no one was hurt in the crash, but Westervelt got away on US-1.

OBPD caught up to Westervelt on US-1 a short time later, arrested him, and brought him to the Volusia County Jail, where, as of Tuesday, he is being held. OBPD has filed additional charges against Westervelt for fleeing and attempting to elude law enforcement, leaving the scene of an accident, and knowingly operating a vehicle with a suspended license.

“These dirtbags continue to test our resolve,” Sheriff Rick Staly said. “It was a well-executed apprehension and I thank the Ormond Beach Police Department and the Volusia County Sheriff's Office for their assistance. He is back at the Green Roof Inn where he belongs.”

Copyright Southern Stone Communications 2017.

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