In the early hours of October 11th, Panola County law enforcement engaged in a high-speed pursuit on Highway 59 north, involving an enhanced Dodge Durango SRT. Due to the superior performance of the vehicle, Panola authorities lost sight of the car, which was last seen heading north on Highway 59. Marshall Police Department later located the vehicle refueling near I-20 in Marshall, sparking another pursuit.
The driver of the vehicle, identified as 26-year-old LaMonte Deljuan Lester-Terry from Detroit, MI, was pursued until he lost control of his car and crashed in front of Ward Plaza. After the wreck, Terry fled the scene on foot, leading officers on a chase into nearby woods. During the pursuit, law enforcement temporarily lost sight of him. However, with the help of K-9 unit "Coffee," deputies successfully tracked Terry down approximately 200 feet into the wooded area. He was taken into custody without further incident.
Upon searching the vehicle, law enforcement discovered 14 pounds of marijuana, 20 cases of promethazine, 1 1/2 pounds of mushrooms, and 57 grams of THC vapes. LaMonte Deljuan Lester-Terry now faces multiple charges, including Evading Arrest and Criminal Mischief valued between $750 and $2,500, filed by the Marshall Police Department. Additionally, he has been charged with Evading Arrest, Possession of Marijuana weighing more than 5 pounds but less than 500 pounds, two counts of Possession of Controlled Substance (PG 2) weighing between 4 grams and 400 grams, and 20 counts of Possession of Dangerous Drugs by the Harrison County Sheriff’s Office.
Authorities expressed gratitude for the cooperation among the involved agencies. Sheriff BJ Fletcher praised the teamwork, saying, "It is great to have such a close working relationship with Sheriff Clinton and the Panola County Deputies, and with Chief Carruth and the Marshall Police Officers. We value our community, and stopping these drugs from hitting the streets is a huge success for all of us. Great work to everyone involved. Different patches, same mission."
