News Release

Editor’s Note: No booking photo of Azbell was available.

FULTON COUNTY — Jeffrey T. Azbell, 58, Peru, was arrested following a pursuit in Fulton County Wednesday, Sept. 11.

On Wednesday afternoon, shortly after 3 p.m., Trooper Chad Babbs was patrolling on old US 31 near CR 400S in Fulton County when he attempted to stop a 2008 Silver Chevrolet Impala for driving left of center. The driver, later identified as Azbell, initially stopped, however, fled during the traffic stop leading Babbs on a pursuit through Fulton County.

During the pursuit, Azbell threw a substance from the vehicle, which was later found to be methamphetamine. A subsequent search of the Chevrolet revealed controlled substances.

During the investigation, Babbs observed indicators Azbell was under the influence and administered field sobriety tests. Trooper Babbs transported Azbell to a local hospital for a certified test before being transported to the Fulton County Jail.

As a result of the pursuit and ensuing investigation, Azbell was preliminarily charged as follows: Possession of methamphetamine, level 6 felony; resisting law enforcement with a vehicle, level 6 felony; obstruction of justice, level 6 felony; possession of a controlled substance, class A misdemeanor; operating a vehicle while intoxicated, class A misdemeanor; and reckless driving, class C misdemeanor.

Babbs received assistance at the scene from Trooper Kegan Kern, Trooper Dustin Powers, Trooper Andrew Baldwin, and the Fulton County Sheriff’s Office.