Cherokee County Deputies Arrest Suspect Following Investigation into Stolen Motorcycle Pursuit

Cherokee County Sheriff's Office

Press Release

The Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office has arrested a suspect following an investigation into a pursuit involving a stolen motorcycle that occurred on May 11, 2026.

On May 11, a Narcotics Agent with the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office attempted to conduct a traffic stop on a black dual-sport motorcycle traveling on West U.S. Highway 64. The operator failed to stop and fled, leading deputies on a pursuit that reached speeds of approximately 90 miles per hour.

The motorcycle traveled into the area of Walker Road before leaving the roadway and entering a wooded trail, bringing the vehicle pursuit to an end. Deputies continued the search on foot and located the motorcycle abandoned approximately one-quarter mile into the woods. A check of the vehicle identification number revealed the motorcycle had been reported stolen out of Polk County, TN.

Following an investigation, agents identified Justin Ray Roberts as the operator of the motorcycle and obtained warrants for his arrest.

Subsequently, while conducting proactive patrol operations in the area of Culberson Church Road, Deputy Chris Baty conducted a traffic stop and observed Roberts in the passenger seat of the vehicle. Roberts was taken into custody on the outstanding Cherokee County warrants. Cherokee County E-911 further advised that Roberts was also wanted on felony warrants from another state.

Roberts was transported to the Cherokee County Detention Center, where he was served with the outstanding warrants and criminal processes. He is currently being held under a $20,000 secured bond.

Justin Ray Roberts is charged with the following:

Felony Flee to Elude Arrest with a Motor Vehicle

Felony Possession of a Stolen Motor Vehicle

Multiple Misdemeanor Charges

Fugitive from Justice

Sheriff Chris Wood praised the efforts of the patrol division, stating: "Our patrol division is the backbone of the agency. These men and women are out on the streets of Cherokee County 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Thanks to the proactive work of this deputy, a reckless offender was taken into custody."

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