On Saturday, November 21, 2020, Deputy M. Dingess was notified of a stolen vehicle from Dry Branch Road in Cabin Creek, WV. While traveling I-77 toward Cabin Creek he passed the stolen vehicle going the opposite direction. He exited the interstate and turned to catch up to the stolen vehicle while asking Metro Communications to notify Charleston Police Department officers.
Deputy Dingess caught up with the stolen vehicle near Greenbrier Street in Charleston and attempted a traffic stop. The vehicle fled from Greenbrier Street to Piedmont Road and continued east. During the pursuit the fleeing driver almost hit a bicyclist, and reached speeds of 75 miles per hour in a 30 mph zone.
The vehicle went down a dead-end street on Bullitt Street and the driver exited and fled to the intersection of Court and Smith Streets. Deputy Dingess tackled him there as he attempted to get into a Lincoln Navigator stopped at the intersection. The driver had a knife in his hand at that time, Deputy Dingess learned as he arrested him.
The driver was identified as Randy Billups, 46 years old of Hico, WV. He was wanted in Fayette County for possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance, driving while suspended, transferring and receiving stolen goods, conspiracy, and a bench warrant. He was charged following the pursuit in Kanawha County with fleeing with reckless indifference, grand larceny, and attempted grand larceny.
As is always the case in criminal matters, the charges against Mr. Billups are merely accusations. He is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. Attached is a mugshot taken during his arrest.
