On the evening of May 6, as reported by the St. Johns County Sheriff's Office, a high-speed chase ensued after deputies attempted to pull over a vehicle in St. Augustine near Wildwood Drive and US 1-South. The social media update from the Sheriff's Office provided the details, indicating that the attempted traffic stop was not just routine. According to the statement, 20-year-old Yo’Hance Butler was wanted in Flagler County on a violent felony warrant and was deemed armed and dangerous. The St. Johns County Sheriff's Office's post detailed the chain of events that led to the pursuit and eventual apprehension of the suspects.
The situation escalated quickly when Butler, along with 28-year-old Eric Felder, decided to not comply and instead to take flight at a high rate of speed—forcing the deputies to give chase. When their vehicle ground to a halt on the FEC railroad tracks, disabled and unable to proceed, the duo continued their escape attempt on foot. It was then that SJSO Bloodhound Daisy Mae was deployed, whose tracking skills led to the location of both suspects in the woods.
Further inspection of the vehicle by deputies unveiled more than just the suspects' attempt to evade arrest. The search resulted in the discovery of over 12 grams of cocaine. The charges against Butler and Felder include Resisting without Violence and Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute. "Both were arrested and charged," the St. Johns County Sheriff's Office announced. Butler also faced additional charges related to his existing arrest warrant for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon.
The capture of both individuals, as described by deputies, demonstrates coordination between the St. Johns and Flagler County Sheriff's Offices. The use of a bloodhound to successfully track and locate suspects not only underlines the effectiveness of K9 units but also emphasizes the multi-dimensional approach law enforcement agencies adopt to ensure public safety.
