High-speed chase suspect faces numerous charges.

Welch

HART — The 31-year-old man who was arrested following a high speed chase with Oceana County sheriff’s deputies, Dec. 30, was arraigned this week in 78th District Court on felony charges of fleeing and eluding police and third-offense operating while intoxicated and a misdemeanor of second-offense driving while license suspended (DWLS).

Franklin Welch, of 2669 Webster Rd., Montague, posted a $5,000 cash/surety bond. Welch is scheduled to be back in court Jan. 21 at 2 p.m. for a preliminary exam, according to his court file.

Lt. Craig Mast previously said a deputy witnessed Welch failing to yield for a stop sign on southbound Oceana Drive in New Era at 3:30 a.m. Mast said the deputy activated his lights and siren and then Welch proceeded to flee in speeds exceeding 100 mph.

Welch reportedly turned east onto Cleveland Road, went off the road and struck a small snow bank, but then was able to get back onto the roadway continuing to 88th Avenue where he attempted to turn south. He then lost control of the vehicle, went off the roadway, and struck a utility pole, which caused extensive damage to the vehicle, according to Mast.

Welch then allegedly fled on foot from the vehicle and was chased by a deputy. Mast said the deputy was able to overtake him quickly.

– By Allison Scarbrough. OCP Editor.