Crime Watch

Hitchhiker pleads not guilty in bogus drive-by shooting case

Posted: Jul 12, 2012 9:42 PM by MTN News
Updated: Jul 12, 2012 9:42 PM

GLASGOW - An out-of-state traveler accused of shooting himself near Glasgow, and then blaming it on a drive-by shooter, was arrested, finger-printed, faced a judge and posted bond, all within about 80 minutes today.

Valley County Sheriff Glen Meier tells Q-2 News that 39-year-old Ray Dolin was very remorseful and feels bad for what he's done.

Sheriff Meier says Dolin turned himself in this morning, was checked into jail and faced a judge for tampering with evidence, making false reports to law enforcement and obstructing a police officer.

Dolin pleaded not guilty to the charges and then posted a 10-thousand dollar cash bond.

Originally, Dolin told authorities he had been randomly shot on June ninth, while traveling the country to write a book on the "kindness of America."

When Dolin's story failed to pan out, he eventually confessed - admitting he shot himself.

Sheriff Meier, who led the investigation, believes Dolin shot himself as a publicity stunt to help promote his book.

Meier says he believes if Dolin could erase what happened he would.

"It's obvious he wants to change his life and move on," said Meier.

Topics: Billings, KTVQ, hitchhiker, Ray Dolin, Glasgow, drive-by shooting, Sheriff Glen Meier