Batesburg-Leesville man charged after 35-mile police chase

A 35-year-old Batesburg-Leesville man faces numerous charges after leading authorities on a 35-mile chase early Saturday morning, the Saluda County Sheriff’s Department said Wednesday.

Stephen Smith was taken into custody after abandoning his wrecked car on in Aiken County and fleeing on foot, Sheriff John Perry said.

Saluda Police attempted a traffic stop early Saturday after Smith allegedly was seen driving erratically on the Batesburg Highway. When he refused to pull over, county deputies joined the chase which led through the towns of Saluda and Ridge Spring and into Aiken County, Perry said.

Smith, who deputies said was under the influence of drugs and alcohol, allegedly was in possession of marijuana and the drug ecstasy when he was taken into custody, Perry said. He also was discovered to be driving with a suspended license and had an outstanding warrant in Newberry County for DUI.

Smith has been charged with possession of a scheduled substance, possession of marijuana, resisting arrest, failing to stop for blue lights, driving under suspension, and DUI.

This story was originally published February 10, 2016 at 8:43 PM with the headline "Batesburg-Leesville man charged after 35-mile police chase."