Broken Brake Light Leads To Police Chase, Arrest Of Most Wanted Fugitive
DETROIT (WWJ) - Authorities say one of Detroit's most wanted criminals is now in police custody, thanks to a broken brake light.
Dwayne Richards is currently sitting in the Detroit Detention Center, waiting to be turned over to the U.S. Marshals Service on firearm charges after his arrest Monday night following a brief police chase.
Michigan State Police say the incident unfolded around 7:20 p.m. when troopers on patrol observed a 2005 Buick with a brake light out. Troopers attempted to stop the vehicle on eastbound 8 Mile Road near I-75 but as they approached the vehicle, the driver -- later identified as Richards -- took off.
Troopers initiated chase and after a short pursuit, Richards lost control of his vehicle and crashed. At that point, he was taken into custody without further incident. A subsequent investigation revealed that Richards was a federal fugitive with an active warrant out of the U.S. Marshals Service. He also was driving on a suspended license.
According to reports, Richards is wanted in connection with a nationwide drug ring that has operated out of Detroit for decades. Richards, who was at the top of the Detroit Fugitive Apprehension Team's list, reportedly used his record label "Big Hommie Records" as a front for the illegal activities.
Charges are pending.