Cox accused of taking ex-girlfriend’s car, threatening police

Joshua Cox was arrested May 23 on charges related to taking his ex-girlfriend’s vehicle.

A Woodbine man was arrested in Knox County Tuesday morning on charges that he took a vehicle from his ex-girlfriend and later made threats against law enforcement.

Knox County Sheriff’s deputies arrested 34-year-old Joshua L. Cox on charges of unauthorized use of a motor vehicle, operating a motor vehicle under the influence – third offense, driving on a DUI suspended license, resisting arrest, fourth-degree assault – domestic violence and third-degree criminal trespassing.

Deputy William Stewart, the department’s public affairs officer, said Deputy Mikey Ashurst was called to a residence on Hazel Fork Road in Corbin about 3:25 a.m. in response to a complaint that Cox had taken a vehicle without the owner’s permission.

“An officer safety notice had been issued on Joshua Cox after he made threats against law enforcement officers,” Stewart stated adding that the victim had called back and told dispatchers that Cox had said that he would fight the police and that he was not going to jail.

Stewart explained that the notice is issued to law enforcement in such instances so officers may be prepared when they approach a subject.

Stewart said Ashurst was searching the neighborhood for Cox when the victim called again to advise that Cox was back at the residence.

“When Deputy Ashurst arrived at the residence, he observed the vehicle parked in the driveway with Joshua Cox inside,” Stewart stated.

When Cox refused Ashurst’s commands, Stewart said Ashurst forced him out and took him into custody.

Cox is being held in the Knox County Detention Center.