Laguna Beach Chase, Standoff, Ends With Arrest

Laguna Beach CA

19 February, 2021

3:32 PM

Description

LAGUNA BEACH, CA — Northbound traffic at Coast Highway and Newport Coast Drive in Newport Beach was shut down for over 3 hours Friday due to officials pursuing a stolen car. Laguna Beach Police officers responded to the area of Ruby's Diner in Laguna Beach reference to a stolen vehicle, Lt. James Cota said. Los Angeles resident, William Joey Bennett was behind the wheel of the reportedly stolen car. The car was spotted at Legion Street and South Coast Highway, according to Cota. Officers followed as Bennett continued northbound into Newport Beach. There, Laguna Beach Officers received assistance from Newport Beach PD and a helicopter. "Officers ultimately initiated a high risk vehicle stop at Crystal Heights Road and Coast Highway in Newport Beach," Cota said. Bennett was uncooperative with the officer's commands and refused to exit the vehicle, according to Cota. After a lengthy standoff, including Newport Beach SWAT and Irvine SWAT, Bennett exited the vehicle and was taken into custody without further incident. A records check revealed an outstanding warrant for Bennett, who is on Post Release Community Supervision (PRCS) for carjacking. Bennett was booked and later transported to Orange County Jail. This report will be updated.