DWI and Felony Flee to Elude Arrest in La Grange
On December 24, 2025, D-Shift patrol units with the Lenoir County Sheriff’s Office attempted a traffic stop on a gray Dodge Charger at the intersection of East Washington Street and U.S. 70 in La Grange. The vehicle failed to stop and fled at a high rate of speed, leading deputies on a brief pursuit within the town limits.
The vehicle later stopped on Lenoir Street, where the driver and passenger were detained. Deputies detected a strong odor of alcohol from the driver and requested assistance from the North Carolina Highway Patrol. The driver was identified as Stefan David Idele. A search of the vehicle revealed a Schedule VI controlled substance and drug paraphernalia. Due to the flee-to-elude incident, the vehicle was seized and towed from the scene.
Stefan David Idele was transported to the Lenoir County Jail and charged with the following:
Driving While Impaired (DWI)
Felony Flee to Elude Arrest
Reckless Driving to Endanger
Failure to Stop for a Stop Sign/Flashing Red Light
Exceeding the Posted Speed Limit
Failure to Maintain Lane Control
Possession of Marijuana (up to one-half ounce)
Possession of Marijuana Paraphernalia
Idele was held without bond due to being on pretrial release. The passenger of the vehicle was released at the scene with no charges pending.
The Lenoir County Sheriff’s Office thanks the North Carolina Highway Patrol for their assistance.
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