Local law enforcement is working with federal agencies after a vehicle wanted in connection with a crime spree was spotted in Meridian Friday afternoon.

 

Lauderdale County Sheriff Ward Calhoun said members of the East Mississippi Drug Task Force and Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics were on a surveillance operation at the Bonita Walmart on Second Street when they saw the vehicle connected with crimes in several states.

 

“They observed a vehicle that had been reported as being involved in a multi-state crime spree. When agents initiated a traffic stop, the driver chose to flee in the suspect vehicle,” he said in a statement.

 

After a short chase, the vehicle was stopped at the Interstate 20 off ramp leading to 22nd Avenue, Calhoun said, and three hispanic men were arrested.

 

“We are currently working with the Meridian Police Department, The Mississippi Bureau of Investigation and multiple federal agencies to identify the suspects and coordinate the investigation,” he said. “Additional information will be released as it becomes available.”