On January 5, 2026, the Randolph County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Interdiction Team Urban Unit and Patrol Deputies assigned to the Ramseur zone located Travis Earl Pugh, Jr., who had outstanding warrants for arrest.     

Jessica Nicole Welch was also arrested during the incident. 

Both were transported to the Randolph County Detention Center. 

The magistrate found probable cause for misdemeanor resisting/obstruct/delay against Welch and a $2,500 secured bond was set.   

Pugh was served his outstanding warrants including charges of felony possession of Schedule II controlled substance, misdemeanor resisting public officer, misdemeanor reckless driving – wanton disregard, and misdemeanor flee/elude arrest with motor vehicle. He was issued no bond and a first appearance was set for January 6, 2026, in Randolph County District Court. Pugh also had an unserved federal detainer from the United States Marshals Office regarding escape. Pugh was served the detainer and is being held accordingly.  

Name of Defendants:   

Travis Earl Pugh, Jr.       Jessica Nicole Welch

Age: 34                                Age: 27