(BRONSON TOWNSHIP) - A traffic stop early Thursday led to a vehicle pursuit, foot chase and arrest in Bronson Township, with authorities confirming the suspect is now being held for immigration enforcement -- a relatively rare occurrence in the area.
The incident began around 2:17 a.m. Jan. 15 when a deputy attempted to stop a vehicle for an improper license plate and a lane violation near Orland Road and Slisher Road. Authorities said the driver failed to stop and continued northbound.
During the pursuit, the vehicle passed another motorist, swerved across the roadway and entered the wrong lane of travel before coming to a stop. The driver then exited the vehicle and fled on foot.
After a brief foot chase, the deputy deployed a taser and took the suspect into custody.
Authorities identified the suspect as a 27-year-old man who they said is unlawfully present in the United States. He was lodged on felony charges and is also being held for immigration enforcement, placing the case under the jurisdiction of federal authorities.
The Branch County Sheriff's Office was assisted during the incident by Branch County Central Dispatch.
Local officials noted that interactions involving Immigration and Customs Enforcement are uncommon in the community, making the case unusual for the area.