CCSO release - Date/Time: 10-21-2024 / 08:15 am; Case #: 202400020357; Classification: Traffic Stop Leads to Multiple Charges; Location: Red Dyke & Fruitdale Ln, Coos Bay; Suspect(s): James Merchant (30); Summary:   On 10/21/2024, at approximately 08:15 hours, Deputies Z. Smith and Converse were patrolling the Libby Lane area. Both Deputies observed a white Ford F-150 fail to obey a traffic control device at a controlled intersection.  Deputies Z. Smith and Converse turned around to initiate a Traffic Stop on the Ford pickup by turning on their emergency lights, as it attempted to Elude them, turning onto Red Dyke at a high rate of speed for the residential area and driving down the center of the road.  The Ford pickup lost control and crashed into a fence, as well as a power-pole causing heavy damage. The driver, later identified as James Merchant (30), took off from the crash scene on foot, leaving the female passenger and her dog in the crashed vehicle.  Deputies observed Merchant flee on foot, as they ordered him to stop running, but he continued.  Merchant was quickly located and taken into custody without further incident. During a search of Merchant's person, suspected Methamphetamine and Cocaine were located. After supplying Merchant’s information to North Coos Dispatch, they confirmed Merchant to have active Warrants for his arrest.  Merchant was arrested and transported to the Coos County Jail for the Warrants and additional requested charges of Elude (vehicle & foot), Reckless Driving, Reckless Endangering, Hit & Run – Property Damage, Criminal Mischief 1 (x2), Escape 3 and possession of Methamphetamine & Cocaine. Merchant was booked and lodged on those charges, as well as a Detainer from his Parole Officer.