On Thursday, July 4, 2024 at 12:00 pm, KPD's D-Squad observed a vehicle being operated on Vernon Avenue with fictious plates and illegal tint violations. Officers initiated a traffic stop with the vehicle and the driver, Okeith Parker (39 of Kinston) immediately fled. Officers pursed Parker until he came to a stop on the 800 block of Dixon Street. Parker began swallowing bags of suspected narcotics. Officers were able to gain entry into the vehicle, remove Parker, and effect the arrest.

Officers called for EMS and Parker was transported to UNC Lenoir for treatment. A search of the vehicle led to the discovery of more than 15 grams of cocaine, US currency, and drug paraphernalia. Once released from UNC Lenoir, Parker was charged and placed in the LC Jail under a secured bond for the following:

-Felony Flee to Elude

-Possession With Intent to Sell/Deliver Cocaine

-Felony Maintaining a Vehicle

-Resist, Obstruct, Delay

-Careless & Reckless Driving

-Driving While Impaired

-Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

-Several other motor vehicle violations