Gwinnett News Report

By Victor Vybz | Gwinnett News Report

LAWRENCEVILLE, Ga. — Four suspects were arrested Wednesday evening after officers with the Lawrenceville Police Department’s Crime Suppression Unit located a stolen vehicle and recovered a firearm and narcotics during a coordinated stop that prevented a potential police pursuit.

According to the Lawrenceville Police Department, the incident occurred March 11 shortly after 5:30 p.m. when officers identified a vehicle reported stolen out of Atlanta traveling within the city.

Officers did not start a high-speed chase. They strategically positioned their patrol vehicles to block the car from escaping. This allowed police to stop the vehicle safely while minimizing risk to the public.

Police say the tactic worked as planned, preventing what have become a dangerous pursuit on local roadways.

Once officers blocked the vehicle, all four occupants attempted to flee on foot, police said.

Two of the suspects seated in the back of the vehicle were promptly apprehended by officers at the scene. A third suspect had been sitting in the front passenger seat. The suspect attempted to run toward Rhodes Jordan Park. Officers quickly deployed a K-9 unit. The unit located the suspect within a short time.

The driver also fled on foot but was captured shortly afterward after a brief foot pursuit, authorities said.

After the arrests, officers searched the vehicle and discovered extra evidence connected to the investigation.

Police reported recovering a stolen firearm and narcotics from inside the vehicle, adding extra criminal charges to the case.

Law enforcement officials say the incident demonstrates the effectiveness of the department’s Crime Suppression Unit. This is a specialized team focused on targeting violent crime. They also handle drug activity and gang-related offenses in the community.

“Our Crime Suppression Unit plays a vital role in keeping drugs, gangs, and violent crime out of our community,” the department said in a statement released after the arrests. “This is just one example of the impact they make every day here in Lawrenceville.”

Authorities identified the suspects taken into custody as:

• Quashwon Cleveland, 19
• Elijah Byron, 17
• Jerrell Mouzon, 17
• Cincere Rush, 17

Officials say the suspects face multiple charges including:

• Motor vehicle theft
• Theft by receiving a firearm
• Possession of a narcotic with intent to distribute

The Lawrenceville Police Department emphasized the successful arrest operation. It highlights the importance of proactive policing strategies. These strategies are designed to tackle crime before it escalates into more dangerous situations.

Officials also reiterated that all suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

The investigation remains ongoing.