Lenoir County man arrested for DWI, assault, following series of hit-and-run crashes
On April 10, 2025, officers from the Kinston Police Department’s B-Squad were flagged down by a victim of a hit-and-run incident near the intersection of E. Vernon Avenue and Highway 11. The victim reported that their vehicle had been struck by another vehicle, which then fled the scene. The victim was able to provide officers with a description of the suspect vehicle.
Shortly afterward, officers were dispatched to a motor vehicle crash involving a vehicle vs structure on the 200 block of N. East Street. While enroute to that incident, a third crash involving a hit-and-run was reported on the 600 block of E. Washington Avenue.
Upon arrival at the N. East Street location, officers located the suspect vehicle involved in all three incidents. The vehicle had come to a stop after striking a light pole and coming to rest on the steps of Gateway to Heaven Church.
The driver, identified as 39-year-old Frank Smith of Lenoir County, was found to be intoxicated and uncooperative. During the investigation, Smith assaulted officers and caused property damage while in custody.
Smith was arrested and charged with the following offenses:
• Three counts of Felony Assault on a Law Enforcement Officer
• Two counts of Hit and Run
• Driving While Impaired (DWI)
• Felony Malicious Conduct by a Prisoner
• Injury to Real Property
• Resisting a Public Officer
Smith is currently being held at the Lenoir County Jail under a secured bond.
The Kinston Police Department remains committed to protecting our community and holding individuals accountable for endangering public safety.
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