Bristol, Fla. (WFLA) – A Georgia man accused of being accused of luring a two-month-old child was arrested Sunday after he said he was caught passing Florida with a toddler in his car.
It was around 4pm on Sunday that the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) said the troopers had learned the suspect. Maultes Rashard Edwards, 23, was driving in the US 319 in Wakula County.
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Authorities discovered Edwards about 30 minutes later, and he moved westwards on SR 20 and SR 267 in Leon County, heading for Liberty County.
Troopers and Liberty County representatives said they tried to get Edwards to hand over him but refused to follow, saying they would “start a dangerous pursuit.”
Officials said Edwards was driving “irregularly” and was brake checking officers checking the brakes while his two-month-old child was in the back seat.
The pursuit will continue to Gadsden County, with authorities saying troopers can carry out the pit operation “successfully and safely.”
FHP said Edwards tried to escape from the vehicle but was stopped by a Liberty County representative. Edwards then grabbed an AR-15 rifle hidden in his car and placed a barrel under his chin, officials said.
Liberty County Councilman was able to disarm Edwards after a brief struggle. The Troopers say Edwards ran into the woods and dumped the baby in the car.
However, according to FHP, the troopers and deputies quickly caught up with him and arrested him.
Authorities said the auxiliary infants are safe in car seats with no signs of injury. The two-month-old child was reunited with his mother and grandmother at a hospital in Gadsden County.
Edwards was booked at the Liberty County Jail on charges of escape and evasion, and displayed firearms during the felony committee, allegedly fleeing and evasion to officers, worsening battery to officers, cruelty to children, tempting children under the age of 13, and displaying firearms during the felony committee.
“The incident underscores how important it is for the motor vehicle public to be vigilant and support law enforcement,” said Colonel Gaise of the Florida Highway Patrol. “It shows how Florida law enforcement works together as a resource multiplier in our commitment to harming, pursuing justice and holding criminals accountable.”
