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The Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office arrested a 13-time convicted felon after he fled a traffic stop.
On May 9, 2025, at 4:07 p.m., deputies stopped a black 2008 BMW at Taylor Road and Vatican Road in Thonotosassa because the vehicle's tinted windows appeared to be below the legal limit.
After approaching the driver, James Freeman, 48, deputies smelled a strong odor of marijuana. Deputies issued multiple commands for Freeman to exit the vehicle, but he refused and fled the scene at a high rate of speed.
At the time of the traffic stop, Freeman was out on bond for two counts of Murder in the First Degree Resulting from the Unlawful Distribution of Fentanyl.
A warrant for the charge of Fleeing to Elude was issued. On May 13, 2025, at 3:00 p.m., deputies located Freeman inside a gray Nissan vehicle at 8425 Radio Lane in Tampa.
Freeman was arrested and is now facing the following charges:
“This is a violent felon, out on bond for two murder charges, caught with a gun. That alone is alarming,” said Sheriff Chad Chronister. “It’s because of the vigilance and determination of our deputies that this dangerous criminal is back in custody. Their swift action prevented a potentially volatile situation from becoming something far worse."
This is an active investigation and any updates will come from the Public Affairs Office. |