Stolen Vehicle Recovery Leads to Reckless Chase and Arrest in Atlanta

On October 18, 2024, around 10:00 PM, Atlanta Police officers were recovering a stolen vehicle at 3136 MLK when they noticed a white BMW backed into a parking space at the Abby Ridge Apartments. The officers approached the vehicle to determine if it matched the description of another car recently reported stolen from Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport.

As they got closer, officers detected the smell of raw marijuana emanating from the vehicle. When officers attempted to contact the driver, identified as Demario Moreland, he refused to exit the car, denied having any marijuana, and sped away.

In response, ACE units requested air support, and the APD Phoenix unit was deployed. During the pursuit, Moreland drove recklessly, nearly colliding with multiple patrol units and swerving into oncoming traffic.

The Air Unit tracked the vehicle until it eventually stopped at 289 Spellman St. Moreland exited the vehicle and fled on foot, while his passenger surrendered to the authorities. Officers later located Moreland emerging from behind a residence.

Moreland was charged with fleeing and eluding, failure to maintain lane, failure to obey traffic control devices, hit-and-run, possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, and possession of MDMA. Approximately $12,000 in cash was recovered from him and submitted as evidence. He was transported to Fulton County Jail, and his vehicle was impounded. The passenger was not charged.