Local deputies arrest man for kidnapping, fleeing from police

Deputies from the Christian County Sheriff’s Office arrested 22-year-old Thomas Welch for kidnapping, fleeing from police and other charges after they received reports of a disturbance at a residence on Peach Street on Tuesday.

According to the disturbance report, a male, later identified as Welch, was seen holding a female victim down. Arriving at the residence, deputies saw a vehicle known to belong to Welch, leaving the area.

Deputies then attempted a traffic stop, but Welch reportedly refused to stop and began fleeing and led deputies down Greenville Road and East First Street. The pursuit ended when deputies performed a PIT maneuver on Welch’s vehicle.

Welch was arrested and the victim says Welch grabbed her and forced her into the vehicle following a physical altercation that took place at the residence.

Welch was charged with kidnapping, fourth-degree assault, unlawful imprisonment, first-degree fleeing or evading police, first-degree criminal mischief, resisting arrest and several traffic violations.