Lake County, Florida – A Groveland traffic stop escalated into a high-speed pursuit and drone search, ending in a felony arrest Wednesday.
According to the Lake County Sheriff’s Office, deputies received a tip that an individual with an active felony warrant was staying at a residence in Groveland and was known to drive a white Ford F-150 pickup. Deputies conducted proactive patrols in the area and later observed a vehicle matching that description.
Investigators said the suspect allegedly attempted to flee at a high rate of speed after deputies attempted to make contact. The vehicle was later found unoccupied in the area of Mascotte. Deputies deployed a drone, which located the suspect hiding in brush just east of the abandoned truck.
Deputies announced themselves and ordered the suspect to exit the wooded area. Authorities said the suspect complied and was taken into custody without further incident. During a pat-down search, deputies allegedly found the suspect in possession of a controlled substance.
The suspect was identified as Steve Mazak, who was transported to the Lake County Jail. Officials said he was charged with Driving While License Suspended or Revoked and Fleeing and Eluding with Lights and Sirens, along with additional charges stemming from the incident.
No injuries were reported, and no crashes were documented during the pursuit, according to deputies. The investigation remains ongoing.
The arrest may be of particular relevance to commuters and residents traveling between Groveland and Mascotte, where law enforcement activity briefly increased during the search.
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