Midlothian police arrest 2 suspects evading arrest

MIDLOTHIAN – The Midlothian Police were called to the First Financial Bank in the 1400 block of East Main Street last week at around 12:11 p.m. after being notified of an individual in the drive-thru attempting to cash a check with fraudulent material.

According to Midlothian Assistant Police Chief Scott Brown, dispatch advised police they had received a 911 call from a bank employee reporting a female suspect in a white SUV trying to cash a check using a known customer’s identity and bank information.

Brown said when officers arrived, the vehicle was still at the bank. 

As police entered the parking lot, the male passenger in the white SUV switched places with the female driver and left the bank, driving through the Brookshire’s parking lot, located at 1400 East Main Street. 

“The suspects then led responding officers on a brief chase that went through downtown Midlothian,” Brown explained. 

The suspects eventually crashed at the dead end of 700 East Avenue F and fled on foot. 

At 12:20 p.m. officers were able to detain the male subject, Rodrick Brantley, 38, on FM 1387 just northeast of the wrecked SUV. 

Brantley was taken into custody and transported to the Midlothian City Jail where he was booked in on charges that include evading arrest or detention with a vehicle, which is a 3rd Degree Felony.

Brown said Brantley also has multiple Forgery/Fraud warrants from various agencies.

“So we may be able to help other agencies clear some cases too.”

At approximately 1:50 p.m. officers responded to the 7-Eleven located at 1431 East Main Street after receiving a report of a female at the location that matched the description of the suspect that attempted to cash the check. 

Following that call, officers detained Chloe Anne Moreno, 19. Moreno was arrested on charges including fraudulent use or possession of identifying information, a state jail felony.

Brown said, “Catching these folks was a true team effort. We had officers from both the patrol and traffic units respond immediately to the scene. 

“Then our K9 team and criminal investigations staff assisted in the search and apprehension. 

“We were also aided in our efforts by accurate reports from our citizens with the descriptions and locations of the suspects.

“We really appreciate the community support.”