Property crimes are more common than violent crimes in the United States, but they can still carry serious sentences if a suspect is convicted. Many thefts also result in additional charges, especially if a suspect tries to run from police or hurts anyone during the course of a theft.
A car chase through Tulsa resulted in an injured police officer and the arrest of one suspect.
Juvenile suspects attempt to flee in stolen truck
Local law enforcement released a statement that four juveniles had illegally taken a Ford F-150 pickup truck in Tulsa, Oklahoma. A special unit for gun crimes was patrolling the area of 21st Street and Memorial Ave when it spotted the stolen vehicle around midnight. It took almost 24 hours from the time of the theft before any officers in the city had seen it.
Officers approached the stolen pickup to make a traffic stop in the area of 26th Street and Sheridan Ave. They say that some of the occupants left the vehicle and took off on foot, but the driver sped away and initiated a chase that lasted part of the night. During the course of this pursuit, one officer suffered from a leg injury during a foot chase that was not considered severe or life threatening. All of the juveniles that were in the truck were eventually caught, but only the driver will be facing criminal charges.
Car chases and flight from the police
Crimes involving stolen vehicles and pursuit by law enforcement are extremely dangerous due to the possibility of further injuries and property damage. Fleeing from police is charged as an additional crime, and it is considered a felony in most states.
If the suspect causes anyone to die while they are fleeing from law enforcement, they may be charged with murder under the felony murder rule, even if the death was unintentional. Because the combined sentences for all of these crimes can start to add up quickly, it is important to get adequate legal representation from a defense lawyer. Even if the charges are for misdemeanors that seem less serious, the consequences of a criminal record can still affect someone for life.
Cases against juveniles
Juvenile defendants do receive some additional protections that will prevent them from serving lengthy sentences in most cases. However, it is still important to contact an attorney who is familiar with the local juvenile justice system in your area, as these cases do have some differences from standard criminal charges.
Get assistance after the state brings criminal charges
If you have been formally charged, it is important to speak with a lawyer and develop a defense strategy as soon as possible. The Henson Law Firm PLLC represents individuals charged with crimes in Tulsa and nearby areas in Oklahoma.