Police chase ends in drug bust in Ohio

OHIO — A late-night police chase through Parma ended with one man in custody early Wednesday morning, authorities said.

The chase began around midnight when an officer attempted to stop the driver of a white SUV for having no visible registration near Pearl and Brookpark Roads.

Police said the driver, later identified as 33-year-old Bryan Donald Valenti of Cleveland, refused to stop and fled at speeds reaching 80 mph. The pursuit continued along Pearl Road, Biddulph Road, State Road, and Denison Avenue.

Valenti eventually turned onto Bradley Road, a dead-end street, where officers shined a spotlight into the SUV and confirmed his identity. He then jumped out and tried to run but was quickly apprehended. Police said Valenti left the SUV in gear, causing it to roll into a parked truck.

After being detained, Valenti told officers he had swallowed a bag of fentanyl during the chase. He was taken to MetroHealth Medical Center for treatment and later released into police custody. Investigators said fentanyl and drug paraphernalia were also found inside his vehicle.

Valenti faces charges including obstructed plate, expired plates, driving under suspension, seatbelt violation, and unsafe vehicle. Police said additional charges are likely. He also had an active felony warrant for a parole violation in Cuyahoga County.

Valenti is being held at the Parma Jail.