KPD: Community concerns lead to drug arrests

In response to complaints from citizens, the Kinston Police Department conducted an investigation related to a house within our community where drugs were being sold. The community reported increased vehicle and foot traffic, weapons, discarded trash and the sale of illegal drugs. With the assistance from our community members, we were able to effectively address this situation.

On October 20, 2022, C-Squad Officers concluded a two week-long investigation into gang activity, illegal weapons possession, and illicit drug sales. Officers, with the assistance of the Investigations Division and our SWAT Team, executed a search warrant at 1208 E Bright Street. Officers located (4) adult aged men inside the residence, along with a 16-year-old male and a 1-year-old child.

During the search 557 grams of marijuana (1.23 lbs.), $5,123 in cash money, an AR style rifle, multiple extended pistol mags, and digital scales were seized.

Julius Lawson (21), Nicholas Edwards (24), Jadakis Fleming (24), Tajiri Hines (21), were arrested and placed in the Lenoir County Detention Center. Officers will follow up with juvenile services regarding the 16-year-old juvenile. The 1-year-old juvenile was released to his guardian (not on scene). All other individuals were charged with the following:

• Possession of Controlled Substance within 1,000 feet of Park x 2

• Felony Maintaining a Dwelling

• Felony Possession of Marijuana

• Felony Solicitation and Participation in a Criminal Street Gang

• PWISD Marijuana

• Misdemeanor Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

Additionally:

• Julius Lawson was charged with Possession of a Firearm by a Felon and his parole was revoked.

• Jadakis Fleming was charged with Child Abuse.

Anyone fed up with crime within the city limits and wants to be a change maker is encouraged to contact the Kinston Police Department’s Tips Line at 252-939-4020 or Lenoir County Crime Stoppers at 252-523-4444. Calls to Crime Stoppers are confidential and anonymous, and th