For the second time in a week,Brookhaven Police, using available technology, including drones and its Real Time Operation Center, has arrested an armed fugitive who allegedly assaulted a woman on Buford Highway.
Police were called to Pollo Campero Restaurant in the 3300 block of Buford Highway on Nov. 24 in response to a triggered “hold-up” alarm, according to Lt. Jake Kissel, the department’s public information officer. When officers arrived, they were told by restaurant employees that an unidentified woman had been chased into the establishment by the suspect, who was armed with a handgun.
After the suspect, later identified as Antonio Wayne Bailey, 22, of Atlanta, was spotted on camera standing at a bus stop, officers attempted to stop him for questioning. Bailey then fled on foot, running towards North Cliff Valley Way.
At this point, the department’s drone camera was deployed, allowing officers to maintain visual contact on Bailey as he entered Park Towne North Apartments and attempted to hide in a culvert in the woods, Kissel said.
At that point, K9 Officer Koda, a Belgian Malinois, was deployed and located Bailey, who was buried in leaves, within five seconds, officials said. Koda, who is also certified as an article-tracking officer, found a loaded handgun, which had allegedly been thrown in the woods by the suspect as he was fleeing.
The suspect, according to police officials, had outstanding warrants in Clayton County for felony burglary, criminal damage to property, and obstruction of justice. Bailey was charged in DeKalb County with obstruction, possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, giving false information to law enforcement officers, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and theft by receiving the stolen firearm.
Bailey was also charged with interfering with government property after he allegedly destroyed a rear-facing camera while inside a patrol car. He remains in DeKalb County Jail.
Police Chief Brandon Gurley and Kissel said without the department’s technology, the suspect would have been able to flee the scene without apprehension.
“The seamless coordination between our Operation Plugged-In Camera network, our drone operators, and K9 Koda showcases the dedication of our officers and the strength of our public safety partnerships,” Gurley said. “This arrest is an example of how technology and teamwork come together to keep our city safe.”
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