Nacogdoches Deputies Catch Driver Linked To Fraud Scheme

On December 31, deputies with the Nacogdoches County Sheriff’s Office attempted to conduct a traffic stop on a white Volkswagen SUV traveling southbound on Highway 59 at the Westward Drive exit.  The vehicle, which was occupied by one male subject, pulled to the shoulder of the roadway on the off-ramp. As deputies exited the patrol unit to contact the driver, he then fled from deputies in the SUV. Deputies ran back to the patrol unit and gave chase.

Deputies continued to chase the subject southbound on Loop 224. The subject took several off-ramps but then would enter back onto Loop 224. The driver then exited onto the off-ramp to Highway 7 West and attempted to go westbound. The driver lost control, and the vehicle turned onto its side. The subject kicked out the front window of the car and ran away from the deputies. After a brief chase, the subject was taken into custody without incident.

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Why Was This Suspect Given Massive Bond?

The suspect, Michael Foluso Thomas, 32, from Elmont, New York, was transported to the Nacogdoches County Jail after being treated and medically cleared at a local hospital.

A search of the vehicle revealed evidence of a large-scale fraud ring. Many fake identification cards, along with fake credit cards, were located inside the SUV. Additionally, many items that were reportedly purchased using fraudulent devices were also recovered.

Thomas was charged with evading arrest, resisting arrest, and two counts of fraud, a 3rd degree felony. Bond was set on all charges by a local magistrate at $305,000, cash bond only. This is an ongoing investigation, and more charges are likely to be filed at a later date.