VIDEO: Driver Holding Dog Leads Trooper on Pursuit Through Conway, ASP Says

CONWAY, Ark. — A woman accused of speeding while holding a small dog led an Arkansas State Police trooper on a pursuit through Conway before driving into oncoming traffic and being stopped with a tactical maneuver, according to a report.

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The pursuit began around 2:39 p.m. June 3 as Trooper Tyler Ryals traveled north on U.S. Highway 65 near the Highway 287 intersection.

Ryals reported seeing a gray SUV traveling south at a high rate of speed, swerving into the center turn lane and passing several vehicles. Radar recorded the SUV traveling 86 mph in a 55 mph zone, according to the report.

The trooper initially believed the driver was holding either a baby or a small dog. After turning around and catching up with the SUV near Pickles Gap, Ryals determined the driver was holding a dog.

The driver, identified as 51-year-old Leah L. Taylor, allegedly continued south despite the trooper’s emergency lights and siren. Ryals reported pulling alongside Taylor and directing her to stop, but she responded with obscene gestures and continued driving.

ASP said the pursuit continued into Conway as the speed limit dropped from 55 mph to 45 mph and then 35 mph.

Taylor allegedly ran a red light at Lower Ridge Road near Julie’s Sweet Shop, reached speeds of up to 65 mph and changed lanes recklessly.

Near the Interstate 40 eastbound entrance, Taylor drove across a concrete median and entered oncoming traffic before merging onto the interstate ramp, according to the report.

Ryals then performed a tactical vehicle intervention, bringing the pursuit to an end. Taylor was taken into custody without further incident.

Investigators later learned Taylor had allegedly taken the SUV without permission from its registered owner, identified in the report as her mother. The owner responded to the scene and took possession of the vehicle and the dog.

Taylor was taken to the Faulkner County Sheriff’s Office and arrested for felony fleeing while exceeding the speed limit, reckless driving, unauthorized use of a vehicle, failure to wear a seat belt and disorderly conduct. Court records show bond was set at $40,000

All suspects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.