Kinston police charge two after investigation into illegal dumping
On December 16, 2025, officers with the Kinston Police Department responded to reports of illegal dumping near the intersection of Jay Street and Lincoln Street. Officers coordinated with the City of Kinston Public Services Department to remove a large quantity of discarded trash and debris from the area. At that time, no suspect information or investigative leads were available, and the case was temporarily closed.
On December 19, 2025, the KPD Investigations Division was notified that surveillance footage had been obtained showing a U-Haul truck dumping a significant amount of trash and furniture along the curb at that location.
On December 20, 2025, detectives observed that additional illegal dumping had occurred at the same location after Public Services had completed the cleanup. Additional video footage was reviewed, which showed another vehicle dumping trash near the intersection.
During the investigation, detectives examined the discarded debris and located identifying documents belonging to 38-year-old Shantoria Ray and 38-year-old Quentin Ray.
On December 29, 2025, detectives confirmed that Quentin Ray JR had rented the U-Haul truck seen in the surveillance footage. Investigators also determined that the gray SUV involved was registered to Shantoria Ray.
As a result of the investigation, detectives obtained warrants for Quentin Ray and Shantoria Ray for Felony Littering and Conspiracy (M). On December 30, 2025, the warrants were served. Both individuals were processed and released after receiving unsecured bonds.
“Illegal dumping is not only an environmental issue, it’s a quality-of-life issue for our neighborhoods. It places an unnecessary burden on city resources and taxpayers, and it will not be tolerated. We will continue to investigate these cases and hold individuals accountable for their actions.” - Chief Goyette
The Kinston Police Department encourages residents to report illegal dumping and suspicious activity to help keep our community clean and safe.
