POLK COUNTY, Fla. – A wild chase involving a stolen truck, multiple law enforcement agencies, and a defiant driver came to an end early Saturday morning in Polk County. The pursuit, which originated in Hardee County, ended with the arrest of 41-year-old Danielle Gatch of Naples.
The incident began when Hardee County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) deputies attempted to stop a stolen white Ford Ranger truck. The driver, later identified as Gatch, refused to pull over and led deputies on a chase into Polk County.
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The Polk County Sheriff’s Office (PCSO) responded to assist HCSO, deploying their Aviation Unit to track the vehicle from the air. Patrol units strategically positioned themselves along the route to deploy Stop Sticks. K-9 and drone units were also dispatched to the scene.
The decisive moment came when Gatch’s truck hit the Stop Sticks deployed on US 17 at East Wabash Avenue in Bartow. All four tires deflated, bringing the truck to a halt near Earnest Smith Boulevard.
Despite being surrounded by deputies and a K-9 unit, Gatch refused to comply with commands to exit the vehicle. She reportedly shouted profanities at the deputies and refused to show her hands. Deputies ultimately assisted her out of the truck, at which point two large knives fell from her lap.
A search of Gatch and the vehicle revealed methamphetamine, marijuana, and Xanax. Deputies also discovered that she had an outstanding warrant from DeSoto County for resisting arrest, possession of marijuana, controlled substances, and drug paraphernalia.
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Gatch was arrested and booked into the Polk County Jail on multiple charges, including:
- Possession of a Weapon by a Convicted Felon
- Possession of Methamphetamine
- Possession of Marijuana
- Possession of Xanax
- Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
- Resisting Arrest (two counts)
Hardee County deputies will also be filing charges related to the theft of the vehicle and fleeing to elude law enforcement.
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