Police: Theft suspect drove at officer, hit squad car

DUNWOODY, Ga. — Sandy Springs police say a car theft suspect attempted to run over an officer then rammed a squad car.

Police told Channel 2’s Mike Petchenik that Justin Pulley stole a Mini Cooper from Brookhaven and fled from police there and then again in Dunwoody.

“Apparently the victim left their phone inside the vehicle so we were able to track where the vehicle was,” said Sgt. Ron Momon with Sandy Springs police.

Momon said officers spotted the car on Dunwoody Creek Court and approached Pulley, who then drove at the officer.

“Fortunately, he was able to jump out of the way and the subject wasn’t able to hit the sergeant,” Momon said.  “He was able to flee out of the way.”

Police say that’s when Pulley drove into the squad car.

After the crash, another officer was able to pin him in between his car and a mailbox.

“You never know what kind of dangerous situation you’re gonna face,” said Momon.

Rhonda Taubin told Petchenik she and her son were just arriving home when she saw the situation unfolding in front of her house.

“They were dragging someone out of a car and putting handcuffs on him and told us to get in the house and to stay there until they told us it was all clear,” she told Petchenik.

Taubin said she was surprised the dramatic scene played out in her quiet neighborhood.

“It’s pretty off the beaten path, but I guess that’s why he chose it,” she said.

Pulley remained in the Fulton County jail Tuesday facing numerous charges, including aggravated assault on a police officer.

WSBTV