Savannah Police respond to arrest video caught on camera; say suspect was out on Bond

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) - We’re now hearing from Savannah Police about a video gaining traction on social media showing an intense arrest.

Police say 18-year-old Joshua Watson was armed at the time, and that he was on bond for illegal possession of a gun. Watson is also a person of interest in a recent aggravated assault case at Frazier Homes.

At the time of the arrest, police say Watson didn’t stop for a traffic stop and took off on a bike and on foot.

The chase ended when Watson fell, but police say he continued to resist arrest.

Police also say Watson was armed and ignored commands to stop moving, suggesting he was reaching for the weapon.

Police say at that point, one officer drew his gun while the other drew a taser, but did not deploy it.

“In this case, officers were dealing with an armed individual and had to make split-second decisions to protect themselves and the public. I am thankful that the skill of the responding officers ensured no injuries to the suspect or the SPD officers.”

Savannah Police Chief Lenny Gunther

Savannah Police released the following statement:

Watson was ultimately taken into custody, and a stolen firearm was recovered from his waistband.

Mayor Van Johnson released the following statement regarding the incident via Facebook:

I was not present at the scene and did not witness the incident firsthand. The video currently circulating captures only a brief portion, approximately two minutes, of a much longer encounter. As many of you know, Savannah Police Officers are equipped with body-worn cameras and are also required to submit detailed reports in all use of force situations.

And although the portion of the video shown is alarming and concerning, I believe it is important to reserve judgment until a full and thorough investigation is completed. I ask that our community do the same and allow the investigative process to run its course.

Thankfully, no lives were lost in this incident. The individual involved, who was found to be armed, is no longer a threat to public safety. We remain committed to transparency, accountability, and the safety of all our citizens.

Mayor Van Johnson, City of Savannah

This case will now undergo a thorough review, as per department policy.

As for the suspect- 18-year-old Joshua Watson- he is now facing charges including theft by receiving a stolen firearm, felony obstruction, unlawful possession of a firearm by a person under 21, and failure to stop at a stop sign.

Full video: