Felony charge dropped against Franklin County deputy accused of fleeing officer

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- A felony charge against a Franklin County deputy who was accused of fleeing a Pataskala officer at speeds over 100 mph has been dismissed and he will return to duty, according to the Franklin County Sheriff's Office.

Robert A. Lampkin, 32, was allegedly spotted by a Pataskala police officer April 16 in the area of Mink Street driving at a high speed, according to an arrest warrant. The officer reported seeing Lampkin run a red light and fail to use a turn signal.

The Pataskala officer turned on his siren in an attempt to pull Lampkin over, but he turned onto Etna Parkway and reached speeds “well over” 100 mph, authorities said. The speed limit in that area is 45 mph.

Lampkin was charged with failure to comply with order or signal of a police officer, a third-degree felony, according to arrest records. That charge has been dismissed, but misdemeanor charges are still pending, according to the Franklin County Sheriff's Office.

His unpaid administrative leave ended on Friday, and Lampkin will return to duty on Sunday. An internal investigation remains open.

After being read his Miranda rights, Lampkin reportedly said he worked for the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office, but denied that he was responding to a call. A Franklin County Sheriff’s Office vest was seen in the back left passenger area and an unloaded gun was also found, authorities said.

While the officer was getting Lampkin’s driver’s license out of his wallet, Lampkin said, “I apologize, I didn’t know that you guys were following me until the last minute and then I panicked,” according to the responding officer.