Nashville Police Use Helicopter to Capture U-Haul Theft Suspect
Nashville, Tenn. – In a dramatic turn of events early Wednesday morning, officers from the Metro Nashville Police Department (MNPD) captured a suspect after spotting a stolen U-Haul truck driving in the area.
Stolen U-Haul Spotted
Around early hours on Wednesday, officers observed a white U-Haul truck driving west on Trinity Lane near Oakwood Avenue. Realizing that the vehicle had been reported stolen just a few days prior, they decided to take action. The stolen U-Haul was first reported missing on August 19 after the keys were left inside the truck.
Quick Action and Arrest
The officers followed the U-Haul as it turned into the Oakwood Flats apartment complex and parked. They requested assistance from the MNPD Aviation unit, which operates a helicopter that provides aerial support during police operations. Shortly after, the helicopter arrived at the scene to help secure the area.
The driver of the U-Haul, identified as Micaya Mosley, a 21-year-old female, was taken into custody without incident. The police managed to locate the keys, one set found in the ignition and another set discovered in a toiletry bag located inside the truck’s cab.
Drugs Discovered During Search
In a surprising twist during the investigation, officers also found illegal substances within the same toiletry bag. They discovered two bags of suspected crack cocaine along with a larger bag of suspected powdered cocaine. Upon testing at the scene, the powdered substance tested positive for both cocaine and fentanyl. The crack cocaine was confirmed as cocaine as well.
The total weight of the suspected crack cocaine amounted to 3.4 grams, while the powdered cocaine weighed 5 grams. Additionally, officers seized $64 in small bills from the bag, leading them to believe it might be related to the street-level sale of drugs.
Charges and Bond
As a result of this incident, Micaya Mosley was booked into the Davidson County Jail shortly after her arrest. Police charged her with two felony counts of possession with intent to distribute drugs and a felony charge for vehicle theft. Her bond was set at $77,500.
Police Comments
The MNPD has emphasized the importance of community awareness and vigilance against crime. Officers noted that the quick action of both ground units and the aviation unit played a crucial role in resolving the situation swiftly and safely.
Context and Statistics
This incident adds to the ongoing discussion about vehicle thefts in Nashville. The thefts of rental trucks, like the U-Haul in this case, have been a growing concern. The combination of leaving keys inside the vehicle and the high demand for rental trucks often makes them prime targets for thieves.
According to recent data, law enforcement officers in Nashville have recorded a noticeable uptick in vehicle thefts over the past year, prompting increased awareness and patrols in various neighborhoods, especially where rental trucks are parked.
While some thefts result in quick recoveries, others can become lengthy investigations. The community is reminded to always secure their vehicles and keep keys out of sight to help prevent such incidents.
Final Thoughts
The swift action taken by Nashville Police showcases their commitment to protecting the community and their readiness to use whatever resources necessary to apprehend suspects. The collaboration between the ground officers and the aviation support unit underscores the effectiveness of teamwork in law enforcement.
As this case continues to unfold, the Nashville community looks forward to a resolution. With the ongoing attention on vehicle theft and drug-related incidents, community members are encouraged to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activity.
