PATRICK COUNTY – A Stuart man was arrested on Saturday following a motor vehicle pursuit, according to Sheriff Dan Smith. Joseph Michael Johnson, 27, was wanted from both Martinsville and Henry County on multiple narcotics distribution indictments, including 3rd offense distribution of methamphetamine and 3rd offense distribution of heroin. At approximately 4:30 PM, deputies received information that Johnson was at a home on American Legion Road. Sgt. Dustin Foley and Master Deputy Winfred Hill met a vehicle matching the description of the one Johnson was supposed to be driving. Foley pulled the suspect over in the parking lot of Friendly’s convenience store and Foley approached the driver and identified the driver as being Johnson. According to the Sheriff, the suspect sped off when Foley made contact with him. Both Foley and Hill pursued Johnson east on U.S. 58 and then south on South Mayo Drive. Smith stated that the suspect went off road and drove around a house and then through a field trying to elude the deputies. Smith advised that the suspect then went north on South Mayo Drive and crossed U.S. 58 onto Spring Road. The suspect went off Road again and drove through the yard of Patrick Springs Pentecostal Holiness Church and then re-entered Spring Road traveling north. The Sheriff indicated that suspect speeds reached 70 miles per hour on Spring Road. Johnson turned onto VFW Road and Hill successfully utilized the PIT (Pursuit Intervention Technique) maneuver to end the pursuit. Smith stated that Hill and Foley were able to box the suspect in and take him into custody without further incident. Heroin, Cocaine and Marijuana were allegedly found in Johnsons possession. Johnson was charged with felony eluding a law enforcement officer, reckless driving and all outstanding indictments were executed. Johnson is being held without bond in the Patrick County Jail.
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