A routine traffic stop on W Crosier Ave quickly escalated when Akron Police officers spotted a speeding vehicle and pulled it over. What started as a simple stop turned into a chaotic pursuit when the driver, Justice Higgins, refused to comply, sped off, and later fled on foot.
Officers Connon and Held of the Akron Police Department were on patrol when they spotted a vehicle speeding down W Crosier Ave, hitting 50 mph in a 25 mph zone. They initiated a traffic stop at 5th Ave and Chittenden St., making contact with the driver, Justice Higgins, and his passenger, Quandesha Booker. As they spoke with the pair, officers noticed the strong odor of burnt marijuana coming from the vehicle. Based on probable cause, they instructed both occupants to step out.
Higgins, however, wasn’t having it. He became argumentative, rolled up his windows, and flat-out refused to exit. Ignoring multiple commands, he suddenly threw the car into drive and took off. Officers jumped back into their patrol vehicle and pursued Higgins as he recklessly sped east on 5th Ave. Moments later, he bailed near Fuller St., leaving Booker behind, and sprinted through backyards in an attempt to escape. The chase ended when Officer Held found Higgins hiding under a parked car on Weeks St.
Even after being found, Higgins continued to resist. He complied with initial orders to roll onto his stomach but then began struggling, shoving Officer Connon in the face and grabbing at Officer Held’s duty belt. After a brief struggle, officers secured Higgins in handcuffs and took him into custody. Meanwhile, as officers focused on Higgins, Booker jumped into the driver’s seat and took off with the vehicle. A warrant was later issued for her arrest for Obstruction of Official Business.
Higgins was transported to the Summit County Jail by Wagon 86. Sgt. Stanar responded to the scene to assist. What began as a routine traffic stop quickly turned into a chase on both wheels and foot, resulting in one arrest and another suspect on the run.
Final words: Legal note
All individuals mentioned are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Charges are based on the officers’ observations and reports at the time of the incident. The Akron Police Department continues to investigate, and additional legal proceedings may follow.
