Chillicothe, Ohio (February 19, 2024) – The Ross County Sheriff’s Office announced the arrest of 34-year-old Ethan Depugh following a traffic stop gone wrong on Saturday, February 18th.
Pursuit and Arrest:
Sheriff George Lavender details that a patrol deputy spotted a vehicle committing multiple traffic violations near Three Locks Rd and US 23. Upon attempting a traffic stop, the driver, identified as Depugh, failed to yield, leading to a brief pursuit. The chase ended when Depugh lost control of his vehicle on Toad Hollow Rd. Witnesses, including the arresting deputy, observed Depugh attempting to conceal something inside the car.
Following a struggle, Depugh was apprehended and taken into custody. A subsequent search of both Depugh and the vehicle revealed various suspicious items, including:
- Over $1,000 in cash
- Glass pipes
- Suspected illegal drugs (quantity and type not specified)
Charges and Investigation:
Depugh is currently held in the Ross County Jail facing charges of:
- Failure to Comply with the Order or Signal of a Police Officer
- Resisting Arrest
- Obstructing Official Business
- Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
Additional charges are pending final lab analysis of the suspected drugs.
Sheriff’s Gratitude and Call to Action:
Sheriff Lavender expressed his appreciation to his deputies, the Chillicothe Police Department, and the Ohio State Highway Patrol for their assistance in this case. He also encouraged anyone with information regarding drug activity to contact the US-23 Major Crimes Task Force at 740-775-1208.
Community Impact:
This incident serves as a reminder of the dangers of reckless driving and potential consequences of resisting arrest. It also highlights the proactive efforts of local law enforcement in combating illegal drug activity. The public’s cooperation in reporting suspicious activity is crucial in maintaining a safe and secure community.
