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.