ANSON COUNTY — A Rockingham man was arrested after allegedly stealing a side-by-side in neighboring Anson County and leading deputies on a chase that ended near the Richmond County line.
On March 22, 2026, deputies with the Anson County Sheriff’s Office responded to the area of Pecolia Dixon Leak Lane in the Pee Dee community of Anson County in reference to the larceny of a side-by-side, said a press release issued by the Anson County Sheriff’s Office.
While gathering information from the victim, deputies observed the stolen side-by-side approaching their location. Deputies initially attempted to flag the driver down; when the driver failed to stop, deputies then attempted to initiate a traffic stop. The driver disregarded their efforts and fled the scene, initiating a vehicle pursuit, they said.
The pursuit continued from Highway 145 onto Highway 74. Deputies were able to bring the vehicle to a stop on Highway 74 near the Anson–Richmond County line at the Pee Dee River Bridge. The driver exited the vehicle and fled on foot into a wooded area. Deputies pursued the suspect on foot and successfully took him into custody, they said.
The suspect was identified as Michael Jon Shepard, 34, of Rockingham.
The side-by-side was returned to the owner with minimal damage. Shepard was transported to Atrium Health Anson Emergency Department for medical treatment and has since been released into custody at the Anson County Detention Center.
Shepard has been charged with larceny of a motor vehicle, possession of a stolen motor vehicle, felony fleeing to elude arrest, two counts of second-degree trespassing and damage to property.
He is being held under a $150,000 secured bond.
His first court appearance is scheduled for Monday, March 30, 2026.