Johnny Dewayne Thomas
An armed Rocky Top man was arrested and is facing several charges after a short vehicle and foot chase on Tuesday afternoon, authorities said.
Anderson County Sheriff’s Department deputies tried to stop a vehicle driven by Johnny Dewayne Thomas, 41, of Rocky Top, at about 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, Chief Deputy Mark Lucas said.
“The car attempted to evade but stopped, and Thomas ran on foot,” Lucas said. “While being chased, Thomas was seen to remove a handgun from his waistband and look back at the pursuing deputy. He then threw the gun and continued running. The deputy deployed his Taser and made the arrest without further incident.”
The handgun was found to be stolen, and suspected narcotics were also located, Lucas said. He said Thomas has several felony convictions and is prohibited from possessing a weapon.
Thomas was charged with several drug, weapon, and other offenses, Lucas said. Other charges may be brought after the investigation is complete. Lucas said the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms and the U.S. Attorney’s Office will be consulted for possible federal weapons charges. Thomas remains in the Anderson County Detention Facility with bond amount pending arraignment.
More information will be added as it becomes available.
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