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VALDOSTA, Ga. (WALB) - Two Valdosta teenagers are behind bars following a car chase with police. Valdosta Police (VPD) officers noticed the teen driver after he ran a red light in the 900 block of North Ashley Street on Oct. 17.

The teenager sped from officers when they tried to pull the vehicle over, VPD said. The teen driver stopped the chase about a mile and half from where it started. Two teenagers ran away, abandoning the vehicle, in the 1900 block of North Oak Street.

“The actions of these juveniles were reckless and disrespectful. They endangered the lives of not only themselves, but also our officers and our community. Our officers maintained professionalism and ensured the situation ended safely, with the juveniles being held accountable. This should serve as a reminder that this behavior will not be tolerated and that choices have consequences.”

Officers caught the passenger, a 13-year-old, hiding behind a building in the 300 block of Georgia Avenue. He is charged with felony theft by taking a motor vehicle. The juvenile has an additional misdemeanor charge of obstruction after kicking an officer during the arrest.

An investigation identified the driver as a 15-year-old. That juvenile was arrested at his home on Oct. 18. He faces a felony charge of theft by taking a motor vehicle and fleeing and attempting to elude. He has two additional misdemeanor charges of obstruction of an officer and reckless driving.

Both teens will be taken to the regional youth detention center.

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