On July 10, 2025, the Randolph County Sheriff’s Office initiated a traffic stop on US Hwy 220 South, Asheboro, but the driver refused to stop and sped up. As the vehicle approached 2225 S Fayetteville Street, it suddenly decreased speed, slid into the parking lot, and collided with a wooden pole supporting a metal wire used to prevent unauthorized access. Despite the collision, the vehicle continued through the parking lot and over an embankment, causing visible damage to both the front and rear of the vehicle. The driver then exited the vehicle while it was still in motion and fled on foot. The vehicle eventually came to a stop at the rear of the lot against a bank.
The deputy cleared the suspect's vehicle for any additional occupants, placed the vehicle in park, and removed the keys from the ignition. Multiple deputies arrived on the scene to assist in the search and investigation. Evidence was collected from inside the vehicle.
During the investigation, the driver was identified as Jeffrey Lee Needham. Charges were sought against Needham, and the magistrate found probable cause for the following offenses:
- felony flee to elude arrest
- misdemeanor resisting a public officer
- exceeding the posted speed limit
- misdemeanor injury to real property
- driving left of center
- misdemeanor leaving the scene of an accident
- failure to burn headlamps
- misdemeanor driving while license revoked
- no vehicle registration
- misdemeanor reckless driving to endanger
On July 16, 2025, Needham was located, arrested, and transported to the Randolph County Detention Center, where he was served his warrant. He was issued no bond due to having other pending charges. A first appearance was set for July 18, 2025, in Randolph County District Court.
Name of Defendant(s):
Jeffrey Lee Needham
Age: 42
