Man Arrested Following Wild Chase in DeSoto County, Florida

DESOTO COUNTY, Fla. — In a dramatic turn of events, DeSoto County deputies successfully apprehended a man on Thursday morning after a wild chase that originated from the theft of a white truck. This individual, identified as 45-year-old Justin Richard Braden, has been implicated as a person of interest in multiple armed burglary cases and is the subject of an active warrant in Georgia.

The incident unfolded on December 28 when the DeSoto County Sheriff’s Office (DCSO) received a tip regarding a stolen white Mazda truck.

When deputies attempted to conduct a traffic stop, Braden, determined to evade capture, initiated a high-speed chase but ultimately crashed into another vehicle.

Despite his desperate attempt to flee on foot, Braden was swiftly apprehended by DCSO deputies, who also recovered a stolen gun that he had discarded during the pursuit.

Braden’s involvement in multiple armed burglary cases and an outstanding warrant from Georgia has raised concerns among law enforcement officials.

Upon delving into Braden’s criminal history, it becomes evident that he is not your typical offender, as he holds a staggering record of 30 felony convictions across several states.

His charges include possession of a firearm by a felon, armed burglaries, grand theft, and other serious offenses.

Complicating matters further, Braden attempted to deceive law enforcement by providing a false name during his arrest.

Presently, Braden is incarcerated at the DeSoto County Jail, facing a total of ten charges:

• Fleeing from police
• Resisting an officer
• Grand theft of a motor vehicle
• Grand theft of a firearm
• Tampering with evidence
• Driving with a suspended license, first offense
• Fraud impersonation – false ID given to a law enforcement officer
• Possession of burglary tools with intent to use
• Possession of a weapon as a convicted felon
• Violation of pretrial release conditions

Count on NBC2 to provide the latest updates as more information is released.