Toccoa man arrested after traffic stop turns car, foot chase

A Toccoa man was arrested in Stephens County last week after a traffic stop turned in to a brief chase.

According to Stephens County Sheriff Randy Shirley, on September 13, the Stephens County Sheriff’s Office Traffic/K-9 unit observed a vehicle near Elberton Street with an obstructed tag.

The deputy attempted to initiate a traffic stop by activating his lights and siren; however, the vehicle accelerated and attempted to flee.

Shirley says, within moments after the pursuit began, the suspect vehicle left the roadway and struck a tree, instantly stopping the fleeing vehicle.

The driver of the vehicle, identified as 34-year-old Justin Lee Burrell, exited the vehicle, and fled on foot.

Burrell was apprehended.

Shirley says during a search of Burrell’s person, incident to arrest, deputies discovered a quantity of methamphetamine.

A Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Investigator obtained a search warrant for Burrell’s vehicle.

During the search, deputies recovered approximately two ounces of methamphetamine, one ounce of marijuana, digital scales, packaging materials, four firearms, and more than $8,000 in cash.

Burrell was transported to the Stephens County Jail.

After a first appearance hearing, Burrell was denied bond.

Burrell is charged with trafficking methamphetamine, possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute, possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, four counts of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, four counts of possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime, possession of methamphetamine, felony fleeing from law enforcement, and driving under the influence.