A high-speed chase through the South Coast towns of Massachusetts last Saturday night ended with the arrest of a 41-year-old Berkley man. In a release posted on the Freetown Police Department's Facebook page, officials detailed how the pursuit unfolded after an attempted traffic stop in East Freetown.
The frenetic chase began at approximately 8:45PM on Chace Road in East Freetown, when officers, who tried to perform a routine stop, were met by the suspect's sudden flight at alarmingly high speeds. Racing along local roads, the suspect, identified as William A. Silvia, led police across town lines into Berkley, by which time a Berkley Police officer had successfully deployed a tire-deflation device that struck the fleeing vehicle. Having two outstanding warrants, Silvia was apprehended after his disabled vehicle rolled to a stop by the Berkley Community School.
The Freetown Police Department charged Silvia with multiple offenses, including failure to stop for police, reckless operation of a motor vehicle, operating a motor vehicle with a suspended license, and speeding—clocked at 20 mph over the limit.
Concerning the arrest, Chief Rose stated, "This incident is an example of excellent teamwork among officers and dispatchers from both communities." He further added, with a suspect who was brought to a stop, that "The pursuit was handled professionally, with a strong emphasis on public safety, leading to a safe and successful apprehension," as noted by the Freetown Police Department.
William A. Silvia, taken into police custody without further incident, now faces legal repercussions for his actions, which could potentially be compounded by the outstanding warrants from Taunton District Court.
