Hanford car theft suspect attempts evasion, but Lemoore police catch up and make arrest

The officer quickly checked the car’s license plate and learned it had recently been reported as stolen in Hanford. The officer attempted to stop the vehicle, but the suspect, 23-year-old Branden Bell of Lemoore, sped off, failing to yield for the officer as a pursuit ensued.  

Officers chased the vehicle for approximately 13 minutes in and around the City of Lemoore until the suspect turned into the cul-de-sac of Linda Lee Circle. Officers blocked the suspect’s escape and ordered the driver from the vehicle. The suspect surrendered and was taken into custody. 

The suspect, Bell, was transported and booked into the Kings County Jail for vehicle theft, evading a police officer, evading a police officer driving the wrong way, and possession of the stolen property. His bail was set at $85,000.00.