Dorchester County, SC – A wanted Summerville man was taken into custody Monday night after deputies say he allegedly fled into a wooded area behind a residence before being located by a sheriff’s office K-9.
According to the Dorchester County Sheriff’s Office, the incident began at approximately 9:27 p.m. Monday, July 20, when Patrol Team Four deputies were proactively patrolling the Ridgeville area. Deputies reported spotting a vehicle matching the description of a wanted suspect who was known to have a history of allegedly fleeing from law enforcement.
Additional deputies responded to assist in serving outstanding warrants at the residence. Authorities said that as deputies attempted to make contact, Robert Melvin Ford, 54, of Summerville, allegedly ran from the rear of the home into a heavily wooded area.
According to the sheriff’s office, deputies gave Ford multiple verbal commands informing him that he was under arrest and warned that K-9 Yoda would be deployed if he failed to surrender. After authorities said Ford did not comply, K-9 Yoda was released on a search command.
Deputies said the K-9 quickly located Ford, who was taken into custody without further incident.
According to the sheriff’s office, Ford was arrested on outstanding warrants charging him with stalking, probation violation, and two counts of resisting arrest. He remains in custody at the L.C. Knight Detention Center.
The allegations against Ford have been made by law enforcement, and the charges have not been proven in court.
