Rockingham Man Arrested After Side-by-Side Chase

Suspect led deputies on a pursuit across county lines before being apprehended.

Mar. 29, 2026 at 12:22pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a cracked side-by-side vehicle headlight, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, creating a stark, gritty, investigative aesthetic.A damaged side-by-side vehicle part serves as a grim reminder of the risks and consequences of vehicle theft and high-speed pursuits.Rockingham Today

A 34-year-old Rockingham man was arrested after allegedly stealing a side-by-side vehicle in Anson County and leading deputies on a chase that crossed into neighboring Richmond County before he was taken into custody.

Why it matters

Vehicle thefts and police pursuits can pose serious risks to public safety, and this incident highlights the need for law enforcement coordination across county lines to apprehend suspects and recover stolen property.

The details

According to the Anson County Sheriff's Office, deputies responded to a report of a stolen side-by-side on March 22, 2026. While gathering information from the victim, they spotted the stolen vehicle approaching and attempted to stop the driver, who then fled, leading to a pursuit. The chase continued from Highway 145 onto Highway 74 before deputies were able to bring the vehicle to a stop near the Anson-Richmond County line. The driver, identified as Michael Jon Shepard, then exited the vehicle and fled on foot before being apprehended by deputies.

  • On March 22, 2026, deputies responded to the report of a stolen side-by-side.
  • The pursuit continued from Highway 145 onto Highway 74 before deputies stopped the vehicle near the Anson-Richmond County line.

The players

Michael Jon Shepard

A 34-year-old Rockingham man who was arrested and 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.

Anson County Sheriff's Office

The law enforcement agency that responded to the report of the stolen side-by-side, initiated the pursuit, and apprehended the suspect.

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What’s next

Shepard is scheduled to make his first court appearance on Monday, March 30, 2026.

The takeaway

This case underscores the importance of vigilant law enforcement and cross-jurisdictional cooperation in addressing property crimes and ensuring the safety of local communities.