On February 7, 2025, the Randolph County Sheriff’s Office responded to Canaan Church Rd., Denton, in reference to a vehicle theft that had occurred in the area.
On February 14, 2025, the vehicle owner reported the vehicle had been returned to the registered residence on Tysinger Rd., Denton.
Following an investigation by the Criminal Interdiction Team – Urban Unit, charges were sought against Michael Seth Shell for felony larceny of a motor vehicle and felony conspire to commit felony larceny. Charges were also sought against Derek Andrew Benfield for Felony larceny of a motor vehicle and felony possession of a stolen motor vehicle. The magistrate found probable cause to issue the warrants for arrest.
On February 16, 2025, Shell was located, arrested, and transported to the Randolph County Detention Center where he was served his warrants. He was issued a $10,000 secured bond. A first appearance was set for February 17, 2025, in Randolph County District Court
Benfield was located on February 16, 2025, in Davidson County. He was arrested and transported to the Davidson County Detention Center where he was served his warrant. He was issued no bond and a court date was set for March 31, 2025, in Randolph County District Court.
Name of Defendant(s):
Michael Seth Shell Derek Andrew Benfield
Age: 22 Age: 37
