For Immediate Release: Wanted - Assault on a Peace Officer
Date:
January 1, 2025
On December 1, 2025, at approximately 1:37 AM, a Paradise Police Officer initiated a traffic stop on a white Chevy van displaying false registration tags. The vehicle pulled over near Skyway and Raylinn Lane in Paradise. The driver was identified as 33-year-old Joseph Walter Adams. A records check revealed that Adams had never been issued a driver’s license. Based on the misdemeanor violations, the officer informed Adams that his vehicle would be impounded. Adams then fled in the vehicle, leading the officer on a brief vehicle pursuit on Pentz Road. Due to heavy fog, the pursuit was canceled. A short time later, the officer discovered the Chevy van had been involved in a collision in the area of Pentz Road and Sunview Lane, near Lime Saddle Marina.
While investigating the collision, Adams attacked the officer, rendering him unconscious. Adams fled the scene on foot through the heavy fog upon hearing responding officers and has not been located. The officer was transported to a local area hospital and is in stable condition.
A perimeter around the crime scene was set up, and a “Shelter in Place” advisory was issued to residents near Lime Saddle Marina and Pentz Road. Officers from multiple jurisdictions are currently searching the area for Adams, who is wanted on suspicion of attempted murder of a police officer.
Adams is believed to be transient and may have been living in his white Chevy van at various locations in Paradise and Magalia. Adams is described as a white male, 5’7”, 130lbs, with black hair and a bushy beard. He was last seen wearing a white T-shirt and jeans. Anyone with information about Adams or his current whereabouts is urged to contact the Paradise Police Department. Adams is considered dangerous and should not be approached.
Further information will be provided when it becomes available.
LOCATION:
Pentz & Sunview Drive
SUSPECT(S):
ADAMS, Joseph Walter
INVESTIGATING OFFICER:
Sgt J. Alvies
APPROVING SUPERVISOR:
Sgt R.
