Going after your own property might be a costly decision. A Washington State man was charged after he chased after his own stolen truck as law enforcement watched due to a current set of laws.
Back in November 2022, Aaron Babcock said that a man casually walked towards one of his Ford trucks parked at his dealership in Eatonville, Washington, during the day. A surveillance video captured the moment when the man got inside the truck and started driving off as Bobcock rushed outside.
Babcock said he had parked the vehicle in the parking lot, while the engine was running and quickly ran inside the building to get “For Sale” signs. When Babcock confronted the suspect, he pointed his gun at him to stop him from leaving the parking lot but the suspect continued to drive off. He also crashed into another truck and almost ran over people on the way out.
“He was afraid of it (gun), but it didn’t stop him,” he said. “It was scary. I was putting myself in this position to stop him, and I could’ve gotten easily ran over and could’ve died myself, but no, he had no fear. No fear of getting shot or anything. He just got out of here quick.”
According to court documents, law enforcement tried to stop the suspect, Kiliona Hunkin, with their lights and sirens on. Hunkin drove faster and began to pass other vehicles on the road, which caused Pierce County deputies to stop their pursuit.
Babcock continued his chase and eventually caught up with the stolen truck after the vehicle had an engine failure. He held the suspect at gunpoint until deputies arrived at the scene and arrested the 28-year-old.
Not only did the incident cost Babcock more than $10,000 in damages, but he was also charged with reckless driving. Pierce County deputies said Babcock ran two red lights during the pursuit.
Under current Washington State law, law enforcement cannot pursue suspects except for specific reasons, including if there is reasonable suspicion that the suspect has committed a violent offense or sex offense, is driving under the influence, the pursuit is needed to identify a person, or the suspect poses a serious risk of harm to others.