Rayville Police Chief Markus Turner stated a man was taken into custody Sept. 3 after allegedly attempting to cash a fraudulent check at Cross Keys Bank, prompting a foot chase and a brief vehicle pursuit involving law enforcement.
Chief Tun1er stated the Rayville Police Department officers were dispatched to Cross Keys Bank following reports of a suspect attempting to cash a fraudulent check. Upon arrival, bank employees directed officers toward a side exit, where a man matching the suspect’s description, a Black male wearing a red shirt and blue jeans, was seen fleeing across Julia Street toward Southgate Plaza.
Officers initiated a pursuit and were informed by a bystander the suspect had entered a nearby Dollar Tree store. Inside, a shopper pointed the offi cer toward the back of the store. The suspect was located in the far-left aisle. After being ordered to surrender, he complied and was taken into custody without further incident. The suspect was identified as Kevin Thomas Jr of El Dorado, Ark.
After being read his Miranda Rights, Thomas indicated a gray Dodge Charger parked nearby had dropped him off at the bank. Officers attempted to stop the vehicle, which fled the scene at a high rate of speed, recklessly driving through the Southgate Plaza parking lot, narrowly missing several pedestrians.
Due to the driver’s dangerous behavior which included passing vehicles on the shoulder multiple times and weaving through traffic. Officers discontinued the pursuit for public safety.
Thomas was arrested and charged with resisting arrest, monetary instrument abuse and was transported to the Richland Parish Detention Center.
Chief Turner would also like to thank Sgt. Jeff McDonald and Asst. Chief Czyz Williams, along with off duty officer Dusty Martin as well as Aux. Officers Joseph Flowers and Billy Boren for the quick response time to the incident.
