The Russell County Grand Jury returned indictments late this week, including several counts against a local man stemming from a police chase that ended in a wreck that very nearly took the life of another man.

Ricky D. Lawless, 33, was indicted for assault 1st degree, fleeing or evading police 1st degree, wanton endangerment 1st degree, driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol (DUI) 2nd offense, and possession of open alcohol beverage container.

Matthew Stotts, 31, was charged with flagrant non-support of a child and with allegedly being a persistent felony offender.

Bobby D. Bennett, 37, was also charged with flagrant non-support of a child.

William L. Stewart, 61, was indicted on a charge of being a convicted felon found in possession of a handgun.

Freddie Russell, 58, faces the charge of wanton endangerment.

Amel Shannon Bubnick, 39, was charged with nine-counts of theft by unlawful taking.

Brandon Irvin, 32, was indicted for failing to comply with sex offender registration, and therefore being a persistent felony offender.

Jennifer Meece, 29, was charged by indictment with escape and being a persistent felony offender.

Readers are reminded that indictment by a grand jury is an accusation and does not imply guilt. The indictment indicates the jury believed that enough evidence existed to support the charges that a trial was warranted.