Trail Ride Turns Into Arrest as Burrillville Police Nab Chepachet Fugitive
A routine trail ride in Burrillville took a dramatic turn over the weekend when local police arrested a fugitive from Chepachet wanted on multiple outstanding charges. The suspect, whose name has not yet been released pending formal arraignment, was taken into custody after a disturbance during an organized ride through a wooded area near the Burrillville–Glocester town line.
According to Burrillville Police Chief Stephen Lynch, officers were called to the scene after participants reported erratic behavior from one rider, who became aggressive and attempted to flee on horseback when questioned. Officers on the scene quickly recognized the individual from an active warrant issued in Glocester for felony assault and probation violations.
“The suspect tried to escape into the woods but was ultimately apprehended after a short pursuit,” said Chief Lynch. “Thanks to the swift actions of our officers and the cooperation of event organizers, no one was injured.”
The arrest occurred near Jackson Schoolhouse Road, an area known for its extensive trail network popular with local equestrians. Witnesses said the scene turned chaotic when the rider abruptly broke away from the group, prompting concerns among other participants.
Police say the suspect was in possession of a concealed weapon at the time of arrest and now faces additional charges, including resisting arrest and carrying a weapon without a permit.
The individual is currently being held at the Adult Correctional Institutions (ACI) and is expected to be extradited to Glocester to face the original charges.
The Burrillville Police Department praised the public for their cooperation and emphasized that all suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
