Police led on a chase through Marietta by drunk driver

An Atlanta man has been charged with attempting to flee from police, driving under the influence, and driving with one headlight.

An arrest warrant issued by the Cobb County Police Department outlines the details of the incident. On July 18, while driving a white Hyundai Sonata on Interstate 75 in Marietta, 26-year-old Joshua Reginald Beckham allegedly exhibited erratic driving and swerving while under the influence.

Beckham’s vehicle had an inoperable passenger-side brake light and was missing the driver’s side headlight. A concerned motorist called 911 to report Beckham’s dangerous driving. 

Upon police signaling a traffic stop, Beckham fled westbound on South Marietta Parkway, reaching speeds exceeding 80 mph, as stated in the arrest warrant. He was apprehended after a brief vehicle pursuit.

During the arrest, police noted that Beckham’s eyes were bloodshot, and there was an odor of alcoholic beverage emanating from his breath. Additionally, an open bottle of vodka was found in the vehicle. 

Following his arrest, Beckham spontaneously made a statement, admitting that his blood test would test positive for THC, methamphetamine, and alcohol. During the arrest, Beckham kicked the foot of one of the arresting officers, leading to an obstruction charge.

In total, Beckham faces multiple charges, including driving under the influence (DUI), driving with an open container, attempting to elude police, obstruction, and two charges related to the alleged faulty car lights. 

According to jail records, Beckham was taken into custody on July 18 at 8:28 p.m. and booked into the Cobb County Adult Detention Center, where he remains without bond.