Man Sentenced To Life in Prison After Auto Theft Conviction and Dangerous High-Speed Chase
February 20, 2026
(Jackson, MS) Hinds County District Attorney Jody E. Owens II announced today the sentencing of JaWayne Carter, 32, who was found guilty on January 7, 2026, of auto theft following an incident that escalated into a dangerous high-speed chase through the streets of Jackson, ultimately ending in a crash and subsequent foot pursuit.
On October 10, 2022, officers with the Jackson Police Department responded to Advance Installation Maintenance LLC regarding a stolen vehicle. The victim reported leaving the truck unattended for a brief period with the keys in the ignition and discovered it missing upon return. Surveillance footage later confirmed the theft. Approximately 45 minutes later, officers observed a white Ford F-350 matching the stolen vehicle traveling at a high rate of speed on Livingston Road. When officers attempted to initiate a traffic stop, the driver fled, passing multiple vehicles in the oncoming traffic lane. The pursuit ended near the intersection of Gordon and Derrick Streets when the truck crashed into a wooded area. The driver fled on foot and initially evaded arrest.
Following further investigation, JaWayne Carter was identified as the suspect. Carter was previously incarcerated on an unrelated charge, and GPS data from his electronic ankle monitor placed him at the scene of the theft.
Carter, classified as a violent 83 habitual offender, was sentenced to serve 47 years in prison in the custody of the Mississippi Department of Corrections.
“This sentence sends a clear message that auto theft and reckless behavior that puts innocent lives at risk will not be tolerated in Hinds County,” said District Attorney Jody E. Owens II. “When individuals choose to flee from law enforcement and endanger our community, we will pursue accountability to the fullest extent of the law.”
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JODY E. OWENS, II
