Sheriff and deputy conduct felony traffic stop

Sheriff Rick Ramsay and a deputy arrested a suspected car thief Tuesday afternoon near the Seven Mile Bridge.

Sheriff Ramsay was northbound on U.S. 1 about 2:30 p.m. when a be-on-the-lookout was issued for a red, Ford Focus, reported stolen out of Iowa.

Sheriff Ramsay saw a car matching that description traveling southbound on the Seven Mile Bridge. Sheriff Ramsay made a U-Turn as soon as he could, radioed updated information and was soon joined by Traffic Enforcement Deputy Andrew Leird. The two made a felony traffic stop at the south end of the Seven Mile Bridge.

The driver — his name, age and address will be released as soon as they are confirmed — was arrested without further incident. The driver was the sole occupant of the vehicle.

The vehicle was towed from the scene and will be returned to its proper owner.

Sheriff Ramsay was on his way to a county meeting regarding affordable housing in the Upper Keys when the incident began.

“This was a classic case of being at the right place at the right time,” Sheriff Ramsay said. “I continue to remind deputies — as it’s a part of our training — to always stay alert and keep your head on a swivel throughout your shift, because you never know what’s coming your way. That being said, I’m very grateful that we were able to make a quick arrest and that this vehicle will be returned to its rightful owner.”

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