FRANKLIN
Franklin police are searching for a suspect in connection with eluding police and possession of stolen property, according to spokesperson Capt. Tim Whitt. Marquise Derrell Lankford, 29, of Laurel Street, is sought for his involvement in the case.

Police attempted to stop a maroon Ford Windstar Van on South Street at approximately 10:18 p.m. on Wednesday, which initiated a pursuit along several streets on the south side of Franklin. The driver then fled the moving vehicle on foot on Hogart Street leaving the van to roll onto the curb.

Later it was learned that the vehicle had been reported stolen from Southampton County.

Police have obtained arrest warrants for Lankford, charging him with felony eluding police, driving on a suspended driver’s license, resisting arrest, possession of marijuana, possession of stolen property and five counts of failure to stop at a sign.

“We are actively looking for Marquise Lankford. His continued criminal conduct is again place the general public at risk,” Whitt said. “We hope that Mr. Lankford will turn himself in. If not, we will continue to seek him out until he is in custody.”

Lankford’s past criminal offenses include felony to elude police, reckless driving and driving on a revoked license in 2014; failure to pay child support in 2013; domestic assault in 2012; and two counts of felony to elude police, possession of stolen auto, two counts of revoked license, conceal weapon and felon in possession of firearm in 2011.

If you know the location of Lankford, you are asked to call the Franklin Police at 562-8575 or Franklin Crime Solvers at 562-8599.