Pursuit in Saluda involving multiple agences leads to charges including possession of scheduled drugs and warrants 
Early morning pursuit ends in drug and related charges for Batesburg man.
The Saluda County Sheriff’s Office, with assistance from Town of Saluda Police Department, Aiken County Sheriff’s Office, and South Carolina Highway Patrol, charged Stephen Smith, 35 of Batesburg, with multiple charges after he led police and deputies on a 35 mile pursuit.
According to Saluda County Sheriff John Perry, the incident started around 5:30 Saturday morning, when a Town of Saluda officer observed Smith driving on Batesburg Highway at a slow rate of speed, and swerving from one side of the road to the other. Due to the serious safety concerns that Smith’s erratic driving created, the officer attempted to stop him. When Smith refused to stop, Saluda County deputies joined the chase, which led them into the Town of Saluda, then back out Ridge Spring Highway.
Deputies made several attempts to stop Smith, including stop sticks, however Smith continued through Ridge Spring and down Number 1 into Aiken County, where he crashed his car.
Smith, fled the vehicle on foot, where he was apprehended by Deputies. Smith was found to be in possession of marijuana and the drug ecstasy when he was arrested. Subsequent investigation found that Smith was also suspected to be under the influence of alcohol and drugs. His driver’s license was also under suspension for driving under the influence, and Smith also had an active warrant from Newberry County for driving under the influence.
“I truly appreciate,” said Sheriff John Perry, “the assistance from the other police agencies in helping us keep the roadways safe for the citizens of the County. It’s with training, experience, and teamwork that we all continue to make Saluda County a great place to live.”
Smith, who has a lengthy criminal record including previous convictions of running from police, aggravated assault, and DUI, was charged with possession of a scheduled substance, possession of marijuana, resisting arrest, failing to stop for blue lights, driving under suspension, and DUI 2nd.
Address/Location
Saluda County Sheriff's Office
Law Enforcement Dr
Saluda, SC 29138
Contact
Emergency: 9-1-1
Non-emergencies: 864-445-2112
