Deputies were dispatched to an address in the Gaylesville area in reference to a theft.  Deputies quickly developed a suspect and began searching for him.

Later in the day, Lt. Nick Vaughn spotted the suspect’s vehicle on Highway 68 in Cedar Bluff.

Lt. Vaughn turned around and attempted to initiate a traffic stop. The vehicle refused to stop and a pursuit ensued.

The vehicle came to a stop on Williamson Street in Cedar Bluff where the driver then fled on foot. After a brief search, Cedar Bluff Police officers, deputies, and Sheriff’s Office investigators took Jeremy Wayne McGatha (32 y/o of Centre) into custody.

McGatha was transported to the Cherokee County Detention Center where he is being held for Attempt to Elude (Felony), Attempt to Elude (Misdemeanor), Possession with Intent to Distribute (Methamphetamine), Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Possession of Burglary Tools.

The stolen property was located and returned to the owner.