A dangerous Saturday afternoon pursuit through the streets of Ventura ended with a local woman in handcuffs after she allegedly led police on a chase in a stolen truck. The incident, which occurred on December 27, put residential neighborhoods and college students at risk as the suspect drove erratically to evade capture. Thanks to the quick decision making of the Ventura Police Department, the pursuit was brought to a close without any injuries to the public.
High Risk Chase Near Ventura College
The trouble began around 4 00 p.m. when officers spotted a vehicle on Loma Vista Road that had been reported stolen earlier that same day. When police attempted to pull the truck over, the driver, later identified as 37 year old Brooke Lawton, refused to stop. The ensuing pursuit took officers directly through the Ventura College campus and into the residential neighborhoods just south of the school.
Lawton’s driving became increasingly reckless as she sped through a construction zone and narrow neighborhood streets. Recognizing the extreme danger to pedestrians and other drivers, the on duty supervisor made the strategic call to terminate the vehicle pursuit. This allowed the situation to de escalate briefly while officers kept a close watch on the area from a distance.
Capture Behind a Local Gym
The pause in the chase did not last long. Just a few minutes after the vehicle pursuit ended, officers discovered the stolen truck abandoned behind a gym near the intersection of Telegraph Road and Day Road. A patrol officer spotted Lawton fleeing the vehicle on foot and gave chase. After a brief sprint, she was apprehended and taken into custody without further resistance.
A search of the vehicle and Lawton herself yielded several illegal items. Police found controlled substances and drug paraphernalia, leading them to believe that Lawton was operating the stolen vehicle while under the influence. Sergeant Gutierrez of the Ventura Police Department noted that the timing of the chase was particularly dangerous because many residents were out walking after several days of heavy rain.
Extensive List of Felony Charges
Brooke Lawton was transported to the Ventura County Jail where she faces a long list of serious charges. These include grand theft auto, unlawful taking of a vehicle, felony evading, and reckless driving. Additionally she has been charged with driving under the influence of drugs, possession of a controlled substance, and vandalism.
The Ventura Police Department is using this arrest to remind the community of their commitment to roadway safety. They are encouraging anyone who may have witnessed Lawton’s erratic driving or the subsequent foot pursuit to contact the Watch Commander with any additional details. Lawton remains in custody as the District Attorney’s office prepares to file formal charges.