A Tuolumne County man was booked on narcotics and evading charges following a police pursuit last week.
According to a press release by the Tuolumne County Sheriff’s Office, authorities allegedly observed a suspected drug transaction in a parking lot in the Soulsbyville area on the afternoon of Wednesday, Sept. 11.
During an attempt to contact those involved, one individual — later identified as Stephen Thomas Belt, 46 — fled the scene in his vehicle, driving onto Soulsbyville Road, authorities said.
Authorities initiated a traffic stop, but Belt instead led officers on a vehicle pursuit of approximately half a mile. During the pursuit, Belt allegedly drove recklessly, passing vehicles on the wrong side of the road and reaching unsafe speeds.
Belt eventually turned onto a dead-end gravel road, abandoned his vehicle, and fled on foot. After a brief chase, agents apprehended him.
Belt allegedly attempted to discard over half an ounce of methamphetamine into nearby brush.
A search of his person and vehicle reportedly led to the discovery of additional methamphetamine sales evidence, including packaging materials and over $2,500 in cash.
Belt was arrested and booked on suspicion of transporting and possessing a controlled substance, evading a peace officer, possession of drug paraphernalia, and resisting arrest.
