HART COUNTY, Ga. – A routine traffic stop on Bowersville Highway, on Sept. 22, turned into the arrest of a wanted fugitive, law enforcement officials reported.

Shortly before noon, a deputy with the Hart County Sheriff’s Office pulled over a red Dodge Charger. The male passenger, Larrente Shavaul Gaines, was immediately taken into custody.

Gaines is wanted on multiple felony theft charges and for fleeing from law enforcement, according to authorities.

The driver of the vehicle, Kimberly Michelle Rodriguez, was also arrested and faces charges of harboring a fugitive.

Sheriff Chris Carroll praised the deputies for their quick action, noting that removing dangerous individuals from the community helps keep Hart County residents safe.

“This is another example of our deputies’ dedication to protecting the people of Hart County,” Sheriff Carroll said.

Authorities continue to investigate the incident, but no additional details about the stop or the circumstances leading up to it were released.

Residents are encouraged to remain alert and report any suspicious activity to the Hart County Sheriff’s Office.