High Speed Chase Results In Drug Charges

A man who led police on a high speed chase on I-40 this week, is behind bars. According to the Cocke County Sheriff’s office, 26 year old James Marcum of Winfield, TN was spotted Tuesday night on westbound I-40 near mile marker 434, driving a 2002 silver Infiniti on the shoulder of the interstate at 55 mph. When Deputy Ethan Valentine turned on his blue lights, Marcum sped up and started a high speed chaxse that at one point reached speeds of 120 mph. Marcum nearly struck another vehicle as he weaved from lane to another. At times Marcum straddled the center line of the interstate, then also drove onto the left shoulder nearly striking the guardrail.

Marcum finally pulled over near Mile Marker 426 in Jefferson County. He told Deputy Valentine he had been smoking marijuana and had also taken meth earlier in the day. A pipe used for inhaling illegal drugs was found in Marcum’s car along with .38 grams of methamphetamine. Other items found in the car were consistent with illegal narcotics sales. A set of brass knuckles, which are illegal, were also found in the vehicle. Marcum is charged with possession of meth with intent to distribute, evading arrest, reckless driving and possession of prohibited weapons. Marcum was also found to be wanted in Scott County Tennessee.