BY ROGER SMITH
MOUNTAIN CITIZEN

INEZ — A Martin County grand jury convened June 1 and handed down indictments against two individuals.

Jamie McNeeley, a 22-year-old resident of Lovely, faces a six-count indictment charging him with first-degree fleeing/evading, first-degree wanton endangerment (police officer), first-degree wanton endangerment, second-degree fleeing or evading police, failure to produce insurance, and license to be in possession.

According to the indictment, McNeeley committed these offenses Nov. 13, 2022.

The indictment states that McNeeley intentionally ignored signals and commands to stop by Martin County Sheriff John Kirk with the clear intent to avoid arrest.

The second count accuses McNeeley of engaging in conduct that posed a substantial risk of death or serious physical harm to Sheriff Kirk.

Additionally, the indictment alleges that McNeeley endangered Amber Harmon and her three juvenile children.

The fourth count of the indictment charges McNeeley with disregarding Sheriff Kirk’s command to stop.

Finally, the indictment charges McNeeley with operating a motor vehicle without proper insurance or license. His bail is $5,000.

Chad Smith, a 44-year-old resident of Pilgrim, faces a charge of first-degree sexual abuse involving a victim under the age of 16.

The indictment accuses Smith of subjecting a child to sexual contact between Dec. 22, 2021, and June 8, 2022.

Police arrested Smith Thursday and lodged him at the Big Sandy Regional Detention Center. His bail is $5,000.