HARALSON COUNTY, Ga. – A routine traffic stop for excessive speeding in Haralson County escalated into a pursuit that ended with a driver’s arrest on multiple felony and misdemeanor charges, according to the Haralson County Sheriff’s Office.

The incident occurred on June 19, when Sgt. Travis Short was conducting routine patrol on Highway 27 North. According to the sheriff’s office, Short observed a Subaru traveling 106 mph in a posted 65 mph zone and initiated a traffic stop.

Authorities said the driver, identified as Christopher Griffith, failed to stop and instead accelerated, leading deputies on a pursuit. During the chase, Griffith allegedly drove erratically, left the roadway, and struck a guidewire attached to a power pole, causing damage to his vehicle.

Despite the collision, investigators said Griffith continued driving before eventually slowing down, turning off Highway 27, and stopping at Felton Methodist Church, where he was taken into custody without further incident.

Griffith was charged with felony fleeing and attempting to elude, possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony, speeding, reckless driving, failure to maintain lane, and possession of less than one ounce of marijuana.

The Haralson County Sheriff’s Office used the incident to remind motorists that attempting to flee from law enforcement can significantly increase the severity of criminal charges and create unnecessary risks for the public and responding officers.