High-Speed Chase Ends With PIT Maneuver, Two Arrested After Guns Recovered in Lee County

LEESBURG, Ga. — A routine traffic stop in Lee County escalated into a 103 mph pursuit that ended with deputies recovering two loaded handguns, including one reported stolen, and arresting two Albany residents.

According to the Lee County Sheriff’s Office, Deputy Aaron Parker conducted a traffic stop at approximately 4:15 a.m. on June 14 after observing a black Nissan Altima make an improper turn onto U.S. 19 South from Kinchafoonee Creek Road.

During the stop, Deputy Parker identified the passenger as 25-year-old Deandre Denard Lawrence of Albany and discovered he was wanted on an active probation violation warrant. Investigators also determined Lawrence is a convicted felon.

Deputy Parker observed ammunition in plain view near Lawrence’s feet inside the vehicle.

Rather than complying with deputies, authorities said the driver, 26-year-old Cameron Alyssa Paulk of Albany, refused to unlock the vehicle, shifted into drive, and sped away from the traffic stop.

The pursuit traveled northbound on U.S. 19 before turning onto Forrester Parkway. Deputies said the vehicle reached speeds of approximately 103 mph and at one point traveled in the wrong lane of the roadway.

The chase ended in the 300 block of Forrester Parkway when Deputy Parker executed a Precision Immobilization Technique (PIT) maneuver, bringing the fleeing vehicle to a stop.

Lawrence then attempted to flee on foot but was quickly apprehended after complying with deputies’ commands.

A search of the vehicle uncovered two loaded handguns, including a Jimenez Arms 9mm pistol and a Smith & Wesson M&P 9mm handgun that had been reported stolen in Albany.

Deputies also recovered multiple loaded magazines, loose 9mm ammunition, .38 Special ammunition, and a handgun holster.

Lawrence, who investigators say is a multiple-time convicted felon, was charged with Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon. His bond was set at $30,000.

Paulk was charged with Felony Fleeing or Attempting to Elude a Law Enforcement Officer, Theft by Receiving Stolen Property, and Improper Left Turn.

Both suspects were booked into the Lee County Jail.