Lane Co SO release – A vehicle theft suspect is in custody after barricading himself in a stranger’s home in the Pleasant Hill area Monday morning, Jan. 17. The Lane County Sheriff’s Office and Oregon State Police responded to the area of Edenvale Rd. and Filbert Ln. at approximately 8:30am. A citizen reported that their vehicle had been stolen from a location in Eugene and loaded onto a flatbed trailer. The citizen followed the vehicle until it became stuck in the mud at an address off of Edenvale Rd. Responding units arrived at which time the suspect fled on foot and barricaded himself in a nearby house. Deputies and troopers quickly established a perimeter and began loud-hailing the suspect. The Eugene Police Explosives Disposal Unit also responded and were able to safely approach the residence with the use of a remotely controlled robot. The suspect was located by the robot hiding near a couch inside the residence. He eventually surrendered and exited the residence. He was taken into custody without incident. A rifle was also located inside the suspect vehicle. The suspect was identified as 45 year old Joey Lee Whittaker of Springfield. Whittaker will be lodged at the Lane County Jail. Charges are still being determined.
