Gun Charges Filed in Two Separate Incidents Overnight

Incident 1: Gun and Drug Arrest Following Traffic Stop

On January 16, 2025, at approximately 9:44 PM, officers from B-Squad conducted a traffic stop at the intersection of Stadium Drive and Charlotte Avenue. The driver, identified as Montez Nelson, 44, of Kinston, became uncooperative and refused to follow officer commands. After officers removed Nelson from the vehicle, a search uncovered a firearm, drug paraphernalia, and cocaine.

Nelson, a convicted felon, was arrested and charged with possession of a firearm by a felon and possession of a Schedule II controlled substance. Due to his status on pre-trial release for unrelated charges, Nelson was placed in the Lenoir County Jail with no bond. Additional citations were issued for other violations.

Incident 2: Concealed Weapon Found During Alarm Response

At approximately 12:12 AM on January 17, 2025, officers from B-Squad responded to an alarm activation at the Piggly Wiggly located at 258 North. Upon arrival, officers found a vehicle with the doors open and a man, later identified as Donato Gomez, 27, of Beulaville, NC, sleeping inside. When awakened, Gomez became combative. During the encounter, officers noticed a handgun concealed under his leg.

Gomez explained that he was waiting for a family member who was working inside the store. He was subsequently issued a citation for carrying a concealed weapon.

Both incidents highlight the ongoing efforts of the Kinston Police Department to address illegal weapons possession and ensure public safety.