316 Chase Leads to Crash, Arrest, 172 Ecstasy Pills

An Athens man is accused of leading deputies from two counties on a chase through Oconee County Wednesday that ended in a crash and drug arrest.

The chase began when 's Captain Gary Gainey tried to stop a vehicle that had cut off another vehicle in traffic and then ran the stop sign on the 316 exit to Highway 78, according to a news release.

The driver threw a plastic bag from the vehicle, sped up, crossed the median and drove erratically while being pursued on Highway 316. A passing vehicle carrying two Forsyth County deputies picked up the chase, which ended when the suspect lost control and crashed near 316 and Dials Mill Extension.

Deputies recovered the plastic bag, which officials say contained 172 Ecstasy pills.

According to the news release, Timothy Steven Johnson, 35, of Sleepy Creek Drive in Athens was booked into the Oconee County Jail on charges of fleeing and attempting to elude, reckless driving, driving while license suspended, possession of drug related items, and possession with intent to distribute. 

No bond had been set.