On 6/16/2020 at approximately 2am ,deputies attempted to stop a vehicle at 18 highway and I-49 for defective equipment. The driver of the vehicle failed to pull over for the Deputy. The vehicle continued to travel eastbound on 18 highway. An additional unit in the area responded to assist in the vehicle pursuit. Approximately 2 miles into the pursuit the lead deputy deployed a new device called “The Grappler”. The Grappler is designed to bring pursuits to end quickly and in a safe manner for the deputies and the general public.
The Grappler performed as designed and brought the pursuit to a stop in the middle of 18 highway. The subject exited the vehicle and ran toward a tree line. The Deputy deployed his K9 to apprehend the subject. The subject was taken into custody by K9 Lector a short distance from the vehicle. The subject was transported to the Bates County Hospital to be treated for the dog bites he received.
The subject was wanted on several outstanding misdemeanor warrants from other counties and was driving on a revoked license. After medical treatment the subject was transferred to the Bates County Jail where he is being held until formal charges can be filed.
“This is exactly why we have invested in the Grappler system.” Says Sheriff Anderson. “Our job is to catch criminals who violate the laws and victimize our citizens but we have to do it in the safest manner for the general public. The system worked as designed and we were able to shut this pursuit down before it became dangerous to the public and the deputies.”
Sheriff Anderson, who was patrolling with the deputy when the pursuit started, has plans to implement the grappler system on all Bates County Patrol vehicles by mid 2021.
