WPSO Captures MS. Fugitive After Chase and RCC K-9 Assist

Last Tuesday (March 8, 2022), Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office detectives traveled to Robert Sumrall Road in an attempt to locate 27 year-old Tanner Hughes, who was supposedly staying at a residence there. Hughes was a wanted fugitive from the state of Mississippi for trafficking in stolen firearms, possession of stolen property, possession of methamphetamine and burglary.

As the officers drove into the yard of the residence, they observed Hughes as he fled on foot into adjacent woods. They pursued him on foot but were unable to overtake him. The canine team from Rayburn Correctional Center responded to the scene and was able to locate Hughes, who was then taken into custody and transported to the Washington Parish Jail. While being transported to jail, Hughes physically damaged the interior of the Sheriff’s Office vehicle.

Hughes was booked into the jail on the fugitive charges from Mississippi in addition to local charges of fleeing from an officer and criminal damage to property. His bond on the local charges was set at $3,500. If he is able to post bond on those charges, he will not be released, except to the custody of Mississippi authorities.

“The visit to his girlfriend on Robert Sumrall Road did not work out for him,” stated Sheriff Randy Seal. “I’m pleased he was taken into custody and we are always ready to assist other jurisdictions when a fugitive is in Washington Parish. Once again, the Rayburn Correctional Center’s canine team provided valuable assistance.”