Clay County, MO – A Missouri man previously placed on probation is back in custody after deputies say he led law enforcement on a vehicle pursuit involving a stolen truck Tuesday evening across multiple Clay County communities.
According to the Clay County Sheriff’s Office, deputies spotted the suspect driving a stolen pickup near 69 Highway and Lightburn just before 6 p.m. Tuesday. When deputies attempted a traffic stop, the driver allegedly fled, leading officers through Mosby and Excelsior Springs, at times veering into fields and ditches in an effort to evade capture.
Authorities say deputies deployed tire deflation devices multiple times during the pursuit. One deputy ultimately used a TVI (tactical vehicle intervention) maneuver near Isley Boulevard and Highway 10, bringing the chase to an end. The suspect attempted to run from the vehicle but was quickly taken into custody without further incident.
Sheriff’s officials identified the suspect as Joseph P.H. Ford Gray, 31. According to deputies, Gray told officers he had swallowed methamphetamine, prompting authorities to transport him to a hospital for evaluation before booking him into jail. Investigators also reported finding a stolen firearm at the scene.
Gray now faces multiple charges, including aggravated fleeing a stop or detention, tampering, unlawful use of a weapon, and possession of a controlled substance, according to the sheriff’s office. Officials confirmed his bond was set at $200,000.
The sheriff’s office noted Gray had previously been placed on probation following an April incident in which he allegedly fled law enforcement on foot after striking a police vehicle in a neighboring county. Authorities say that probation has now been revoked.
Officials stated the suspect is not expected to pose a danger to the public in the immediate future.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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