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Suspect wanted for fleeing and battery after Batesville traffic stop now behind bars

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Image via Independence County Sheriff’s Department

Independence County authorities have captured a suspect who fled on foot after a struggle with a sheriff’s deputy.

On Sunday, April 4, Sgt. Ernie Gillihan of the Independence County Sheriff’s Department was patrolling on White Drive near the intersection of Highway 167 when he reported noticing a vehicle matching the description of one whose driver had earlier been in a domestic altercation with his brother. The driver was identified by authorities as Chad Edward Thompson (pictured), 41, of Batesville. The vehicle Thompson was driving had also been reported as stolen, the information said.

After Gillihan stopped Thompson, he had him exit the vehicle and instructed him to stand at the rear of the squad car. When Gillihan confirmed the vehicle was stolen out of South Carolina, he reported Thompson became unruly and refused to have his hands cuffed. At that point, the court information says Thompson and Gillihan began to scuffle and fight after Thompson refused to be taken into custody. 

Thompson eventually escaped and fled the area. A search was conducted and Thompson could not be located. 

Gillihan went on to receive treatment for the injuries suffered in the fight. The court information said Gillihan suffered injuries to his right elbow, wrist, and knee, along with abrasions to his body. 

Thompson is being charged in Independence County Circuit Court with felony theft by receiving, felony second-degree battery, fleeing on foot, and fictitious tags. The latter two are misdemeanors.

Thompson was arrested Thursday morning by the sheriff’s department.

He has been placed on a $25,000 bond.


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