Subject Gave Up During Police Chase Because He Didn't 'Know Neighborhood Well Enough'

Devin Thomas ChewningPhoto byStafford County Sheriff's Office

STAFFORD, Va. – A Fredericksburg man was arrested after fleeing from police during an attempted traffic stop.

According to a media release from the Stafford County Sheriff’s Office (SCSO), the incident occurred October 4, 2024.

At approximately 9:28 p.m., a SCSO deputy was in the 1000 block of Northbound Warrenton Road when he observed an Acura traveling 66 miles per hour.

The car’s driver slammed on the brakes when he saw the police cruiser, but the deputy had already activated his emergency equipment in an attempt to conduct a traffic stop.

When the driver reached the red light at Cardinal Forest Drive, he accelerated and initiated a pursuit that continued through several turns and residential streets.

Eventually, the driver stopped, extended one hand out of the sunroof and the other from the driver’s side window.

This act of surrender was noted by the deputy and assisting officers. The subject was taken into custody without incident.

The driver, Devin Thomas Chewning, of Fredericksburg, admitted he'd fled because he thought he would get arrested for not having a license.

Chewning, 24, advised that he had surrendered because he didn’t know the neighborhood well enough to continue the chase.

Chewning, was charged with felony eluding and reckless driving 20+ miles over the speed limit. He was held at Rappahannock Regional Jail and released on a $5,000 secured bond.