New Year's traffic incidents lead to multiple impaired driving arrests and vehicle pursuit
Kinston Police Officers made several arrests over the New Year’s, with a focus on impaired driving and a vehicle pursuit.
December 31, 2024 – 11:41 PM
Officers from the A-Squad conducted a traffic stop at the intersection of Queen Street and King Street after observing a vehicle operating without headlights. The driver, Hugh Stroud Jr. (67, Lenoir County), exhibited signs of impairment. Following an investigation, Stroud was arrested and charged with Driving While Impaired (DWI).
January 1, 2024 – 1:35 AM
Later that morning, officers from the A-Squad stopped a vehicle on W New Bern Road after it was seen failing to maintain lane control. Upon contact with the driver, Celeste Epps (63, Lenoir County), officers suspected impairment. After an investigation, Epps was arrested for Driving While Impaired (DWI). *Epps was released before a booking photo was taken*
January 2, 2024 – 1:15 AM
Officers from the D-Squad conducted a traffic stop on W Vernon Avenue for multiple traffic violations. The driver, Dontreives Hooker (44, Lenoir County), initially exhibited hostile behavior and refused to comply with officers’ commands. Fearing he would flee the scene, officers deployed a tire deflation device. However, Hooker sped off, striking the device and nearly hitting one of the officers. A brief pursuit ensued, ending when Hooker’s vehicle stopped on Cedar Lane. Hooker was arrested and charged with Driving While Impaired (DWI), Felony Fleeing and Eluding, Assault with a Deadly Weapon on a Law Enforcement Officer, and Resisting Arrest.
The Kinston Police Department continues to emphasize the importance of safe driving and the need to hold impaired drivers accountable. The individuals arrested will face the legal consequences of their actions, and officers remain committed to maintaining public safety.
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