Statham Police Investigate Two Reports of Stolen Vehicles

investigated two separate reports of stolen vehicle this past week.

On June 29, an officer on patrol observed a vehicle traveling on Atlanta Highway with the driver flashing the lights and honking the horn. As the white, Ford Mustang passed the officer, he heard screaming from the vehicle and saw a white male on top of the car. When the vehicle pulled into the Waffle House parking lot, a white female exited the passenger side door and the male on top of the vehicle climbed into the driver’s side window before speeding off.

According to reports and statements from the female driver, the male, identified as Matthew David Chambers, 29, of 184 Creek Wood Court, Winder, had assaulted her and threatened her husband, who was in the vehicle when Chambers drove away.

The vehicle was found the following day in the parking lot at Barrow Crossing. Deputies with the Barrow County Sheriff’s Office arrested Chambers inside the Publix. He was charged with two counts of false imprisonment, aggravated assault, violation of the adult restraint law, theft by taking, reckless driving, fleeing or attempting to elude a police officer, driving with a suspended license, theft by receiving stolen property, kidnapping and battery.

A 1995 Dodge truck that was reported stolen was also recovered. Warrants have been issued for the suspect, who Police Chief Steve Martin said was an employee of the vehicle owner.

Statham police made three arrests the week of June 27 through July 3.

One arrest was related to a domestic violence incident, while a second individual was arrested for possession of marijuana and methamphetamine and a driver was charged with DUI and open container.

A Pendergrass Drive resident reported an air conditioner stolen last week.