Ville Platte Police have released new information about the suspect who evaded capture after a high speed pursuit yesterday.

Willie Melvin, 31, is wanted on multiple charges including: kidnapping, aggravated flight from an officer, and reckless operation of a vehicle.

Connie Lamke, a police spokesperson, says Melvin allegedly kidnapped a woman on Monday night and held her at knife point. The woman was able to escape after Melvin stopped at a local convenience store.

Officers tried to stop Melvin on Tuesday after he was spotted in a stolen car on Project Street. He the a took police on a high speed chase that ended outside of the city limits, when he crashed into a ditch near Industrial Park Road.

Melvin was able to escape after running into a nearby field. Police have a warrant to arrest him on the following charges:

  • aggravated battery
  • kidnapping
  • unauthorized use of a moveable
  • aggravated flight from an officer
  • failing to obey stop signs and yield signs
  • resisting an officer
  • reckless operation of a vehicle
  • driving under suspension

Investigators describe Willie Melvin as a “black male with light colored skin.” He was last seen wearing blue jean shorts and a black t-shirt.

Anyone with any information on Melvin’s whereabouts is asked to call the Ville Platte Police Department at (337) 363-1313. Your call will remain anonymous.