VSP: Active meth-making materials found

NEWPORT NEWS, Va. (WAVY) - A man reportedly wanted in several jurisdictions was arrested after he allegedly led troopers on a high-speed chase that ended in a crash in Newport News Monday.

Sgt. Michelle Anaya with Virginia State Police says troopers received a call from James City County shortly after noon Monday that an officer on Interstate 64 was in pursuit of a black pickup truck. Anaya says the truck's driver was wanted and considered armed and dangerous.

Anaya says the driver, identified as Ray Todd Lacks, 47, sped out of control when he exited the interstate at mile marker 64. Troopers said they observed the truck traveling at a high rate of speed in traffic and on the shoulder.

On Jefferson Avenue, Lacks reportedly ran a red light and struck a Merecedes Benz before sliding into a trooper's cruiser. Lacks was then taken into custody.

According to Anaya, smoking devices that contained marijuana and methamphetamine, and active products used to make methamphetamine were found in Lacks' truck. Jefferson Avenue and Fort Eustis Boulevard were closed for some time as hazmat crews decontaminated Lacks, his truck and the hazardous materials.

Lacks was wanted on various charges in York County, James City County, Gloucester, Newport News and Hampton. In regards to the chase and crash, VSP charged Lacks with misdemeanor possession of marijuana, felony possession of a scheduled I or II controlled substance, driving while declared a habitual offender, felony eluding police and six other motor vehicle related charges including reckless driving.

Anaya said the driver of the Mercedes was transported to Riverside Medical Center with non-life threatening injuries while Lacks was treated and released at the scene prior to his arrest.