MILLERSVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) -- Between internal investigations, accusations of wrongdoing, and untimely firings, the Millersville Police Department has been in the news multiple times in recent years for reasons that don't involve policing.

On Monday, May 5, the city swore in a brand new police chief, Stephen Hale, who most recently worked as an investigator with the Nolensville Police Department.

Just a few days after Hale assumed the role, his officers arrested a man suspected in numerous felonies from Knoxville to Middle Tennessee.

More than three months of diligent police work paid off on Thursday, May 8 as Millersville authorities found their main suspect, Luis Negrete Jr.

The 20-year-old was at a local campground when officers had to chase him, running through the main office, out a back door, and then into an open field. Negrete surrendered at gunpoint without further incident.

"Man, I hate running from y'all...made me lose my breath," Negrete told law enforcement on the way to the squad car.

Thursday's arrest was the result of months of investigation into a string of car burglaries, auto theft, and stolen weapon possession in the Millersville area.

"They were able to read him Miranda [rights], and under Miranda, they were able to get a confession of numerous burglaries that had been occurring here in Millersville," Hale said.

For the past few years, the Millersville Police Department has been dealing with turmoil amidst firings, resignations, and investigations by the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation.

Hale said the community can expect more operations like the one from Thursday moving forward.

"I just think it speaks to the officers here. The officers here are great -- so much potential here," the new chief explained. "Again, so excited for the future, so excited to get to work, and especially for our community. Our residents here deserve a good police department, something to be proud of."

Millersville authorities told News 2 that not only has the suspect confessed to the crimes, but other law enforcement agencies are now inquiring about Negrete in relation to crimes in their jurisdictions.

"Taking an individual that dangerous off the street actually gives the community a sense of relief," Hale added.

According to records from the Robertson County Detention Facility, Negrete is being held on a $57,500 bond for vehicle burglary, vehicle theft, and theft of property worth over $10,000.

News Source : https://www.wkrn.com/news/local-news/man-accused-of-crimes-across-tennessee-arrested-in-millersville/