Officers chase man after attempted car break-in

DOUGLAS COUNTY, Colo. (KDVR) — An attempted car break-in led to a foot chase by Douglas County deputies on Thursday. The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office shared body camera video of the chase.

It all started in Highlands Ranch early Thursday morning when a man saw two strangers trying to get into his car near the Northridge Recreation Center.

“The victim immediately alerted us and within moments officers were on scene,” said Sheriff Darren Weekly.

According to Weekly, the suspects then fled in different directions.

“Once that happens, the deputy sheriff calls it in. Other deputy sheriffs start moving into the area to try to contain the suspects that are there,” Weekly said.

Sheriff: Car thefts often linked to other crimes

The video shows the officer in pursuit, jumping over two fences as he chases the suspect into a neighborhood. Weekly said this type of chase is one of the most dangerous things an officer can do.

“That’s usually where most officer-involved shootings happen, where the suspect and the officer are one-on-one, depending on the circumstances,” he said.

The suspect eventually gave up and was cornered on a nearby porch.

According to Weekly, they could have used the stolen car for other crimes as well.

“People steal a car and then commit burglaries or thefts or something like that, and that’s why we’re so proactive in this area,” Weekly said.

Aurora looking for suspects in attempted murder

This point became even clearer after the two suspects were arrested.

“As they were putting these guys in jail, we got word from Aurora that they were interested in these two guys for attempted murder,” Weekly reported.

He said his deputies had done a good job of chasing him and followed everything they had been taught, and he said if you find yourself in a similar situation, leave it to the professionals.

“Call 911, have the police respond,” Weekly said. “Don’t take matters into your own hands because you could get hurt or killed.”

The second suspect was eventually found and arrested about two hours after the initial drone chase during the search. They are now facing charges of theft, vehicle violation and drug possession.