A local man was arrested early May 30 after Marion County Sheriff’s Office deputies say he led law enforcement on a high speed pursuit, abandoned his vehicle, hid near a creek, and was later found with the assistance of a drone and K-9 unit.
According to an arrest affidavit, a deputy was conducting routine patrol around 3:54 a.m. near Southeast 183rd Avenue Road in Ocklawaha when he observed a dark colored sedan traveling at what he estimated was more than 100 mph. The deputy activated his emergency lights and attempted to catch up to the vehicle.
Investigators said the driver, later identified as Dustin Michael Bright, turned onto several side roads, failed to stop at multiple stop signs, and continued at a high rate of speed. The deputy eventually terminated the pursuit due to concerns about public safety.
A short time later, the vehicle was found abandoned in the driveway of a residence on Southeast 187th Avenue with its lights still on and the hood warm to the touch, according to the report. Deputies launched a search involving a K-9 team and the agency’s drone unit.
The affidavit states that a witness told deputies Bright might be hiding near a creek behind the residence. Investigators said the drone later located him on the far bank of the creek.
Deputies reported that Bright initially denied being the driver and claimed another man named “Josh” had been operating the vehicle. According to the affidavit, he later changed his account several times, at one point saying Josh was a hitchhiker he had picked up and allowed to drive.
During a search, deputies discovered brass knuckles in Bright’s pocket. Investigators also reported finding a syringe containing a yellow liquid inside the vehicle. The substance later tested positive for THC, according to the affidavit. Deputies said Bright admitted the items in the vehicle, including the THC oil, belonged to him.
Records checks revealed Bright was a convicted felon and had a revoked driver’s license, investigators said.
Bright was charged with possession of a weapon or ammunition by a convicted felon, fleeing or attempting to elude law enforcement, possession of a synthetic cannabinoid, and driving while license suspended or revoked as a habitual offender. He was transported to the Marion County Jail without incident.
