Lashonda Thornton, 44, was arrested on March 25 following a traffic stop that escalated into a flight and escape situation in Minden. The incident occurred when an officer attempted to stop Thornton’s vehicle for a traffic violation.
According to the police report, Thornton’s vehicle was observed turning through a parking lot to avoid a red light at the intersection of E. Union Street and Sheppard Street. When the vehicle came to a stop on Martin Luther King Drive, Thornton immediately exited the vehicle. The officer requested her driver’s license, insurance, and vehicle registration, but Thornton refused to provide the documents, insisting on knowing the reason for the stop first.
Despite the officer’s explanation that he would disclose the reason after receiving the documents, Thornton continued to argue and refused to cooperate. A second officer arrived to assist in detaining Thornton, but she attempted to flee on foot. After a brief struggle, officers were able to subdue Thornton and place her in handcuffs.
During the arrest, Thornton resisted and attempted to escape custody. The officer warned her that a taser would be used if she did not comply. After continued resistance, the officer deployed the taser, allowing them to secure Thornton in handcuffs. Thornton was then able to pull her hands out of the cuffs, prompting officers to struggle once again to get the handcuffs on Thornton. Thornton continued to resist as the officers placed her in the patrol vehicle.
Thornton was charged with failure to use the required position and method of turning at intersections, flight from an officer, and simple escape. She was transported to the Minden Police Department without further incident.
Authorities remind the public to comply with law enforcement instructions during traffic stops to ensure safety for all parties involved.