On February 21, 2026, while patrolling the area of Oak Tree Rd., Asheboro, Randolph County Sheriff’s Office deputies encountered Joseph Bayse Thornton, who had outstanding orders for arrest. During the arrest, Thornton discarded contraband in an attempt to avoid criminal prosecution. During transport to the Randolph County Detention Center, Thornton asked for a medical evaluation. Randolph County EMS responded to the Detention Center, and he was subsequently transported to Randolph Health and admitted for treatment. After being released, he was taken back to the Randolph County Detention Center and charged with felony possession of methamphetamine and misdemeanor possession of marijuana paraphernalia. He was issued a total of $30,000 secured bond for his outstanding orders for arrest and no bond on his additional charges. A first appearance was set for February 23, 2026, in Randolph County District Court.
Name of Defendant:
Joseph Bayse Thornton
Age: 34
