Accused Cheyenne Car Thief Claims He Was ‘Just Using’ Stolen Car

A 20-year-old Cheyenne man is in hot water after allegedly stealing a car and being caught with drugs.

Arrest Details and Charges

According to a booking sheet, police arrested Derrick C. Ketchum Jr. at the Sands Motel at 1022 W. Lincolnway at 3:45 a.m. on Friday, Feb. 13, for felony motor vehicle theft and misdemeanor possession of a controlled substance in pill or capsule form.

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Ketchum was booked into the Laramie County Detention Center and subsequently charged with felony theft, a crime punishable by up to 10 years in prison, up to a $10,000 fine, or both.

He was also charged with misdemeanor possession of fentanyl, a crime punishable by up to one year in jail, up to a $1,000 fine, or both.

Initial Court Appearance

That afternoon, Ketchum was seen in Laramie County Circuit Court in front of Judge Sean C. Chambers on the charges.

"Would it be possible for me to get that car charge dropped down to like a burglary charge, because I didn't actually steal the car, I was just using it," Ketchum asked Chambers.

"That's not something I can do for you, but it sounds like that's something you might want to discuss with a public defender. Would you like me to appoint you an attorney," Chambers asked Ketchum, who said, "Yes, please."

Chambers appointed Ketchum a public defender and set his preliminary hearing for Friday, Feb. 20, at 11 a.m.

Chambers then asked for the state's bond recommendation.

"I don't see any prior contacts, however, due to the nature of this crime being a felony theft as well as the allegations that Mr. Ketchum was in possession of multiple articles of drug paraphernalia and a controlled substance, the state believes that $5,000 cash is appropriate in this matter," it said.

Bond Set at $5,000 Cash

"I'm going to set a $5,000 cash only bond," Chambers told Ketchum. "If you're able to post that, I will set conditions, otherwise, I will see you in court on Feb. 20 at 11 a.m. for your preliminary hearing."

"Is there any possible way for me to get that charge dropped or no," Ketchum asked Chambers.

"You'll have to discuss that with your attorney, and you will be seen at your preliminary hearing," Chambers told Ketchum.

Please remember that all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.