Gregory Watkins, a 40-year-old man from Evergreen, is facing multiple charges after leading police on a 7-mile chase that ended in a crash into a tree. According to investigators, narcotics and patrol officers attempted to stop Watkins for a traffic violation when he fled.
Watkins' vehicle struck a tree during the pursuit, and he then ran into a wooded area where authorities believe he was attempting to drop contraband at the Conecuh County Jail. A Department of Corrections K-9 team tracked him down and took him into custody.
The arrest is part of "Operation Cold Summer," which has resulted in nine arrests tied to drug trafficking and related crimes, officials said. Watkins faces charges including felony attempting to elude, several drug counts, conspiracy to promote prison contraband, and reckless endangerment, as well as multiple traffic citations.
Background: The incident occurred on an unspecified date, but is part of a larger investigation into drug trafficking in the area.