Last Updated on November 8, 2025 7:31 pm
West Jefferson, N.C. – Sheriff B. Phil Howell announces the arrest of 29-year-old Joseph Daniel Dillard of West Jefferson for several charges, including felony fleeing to elude arrest, reckless driving, multiple drug charges, and more.
On Saturday, October 25th, 2025, Ashe County Sheriff's Office Deputy Carter was conducting a routine patrol when he observed a motorcycle in violation of the law. Deputy Carter and Sgt. Bledsoe attempted to conduct a traffic stop, but the motorcycle was traveling at an excessive rate of speed and recklessly entered oncoming traffic. During the chase, an AR Rifle fell from the motorcycle and landed in the roadway. After the rider failed to negotiate a curve, the motorcycle crashed, and the rider, later identified as Joseph Daniel Dillard, immediately fled on foot. Deputy Carter was able to detain Dillard and place him in handcuffs. Deputies searched Dillard and found a pill bottle containing a crystal white substance, later identified as Methamphetamine, three different types of pills, and a concealed handgun in his waistband. The drugs collected will be sent to the NCSBI Crime Lab for further analysis.
EMS transported Dillard to Ashe Memorial Hospital, where he was treated for non-life-threatening injuries caused by his accident. Following medical clearance, deputies transported him to the Ashe County Detention Center.
Joseph Daniel Dillard, 29 years old, from West Jefferson, was booked at the Ashe County Detention Center on a $50,000 secured bond. His chargers include:
- Felony Flee/Elude Arrest with Motor Vehicle
- Felony Possession of Methamphetamine
- Resisting Public Officer
- Possess Drug Paraphernalia
- Possession Sch. VI Controlled Substance
- Possession Sch. II Controlled Substance
- Possession Sch. III Controlled Substance
- Reckless Driving to Endanger
- Carrying Concealed Gun
- Probation Violation
