VCAT Traffic Stop Leads to Firearm Charges for Brother and Sister
On February 10, 2026, at approximately 12:44 p.m., Kinston Police Department VCAT detectives observed 23-year-old Brafranco Bryant operating a vehicle on Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard. Detectives were aware that Bryant did not possess a valid North Carolina driver license.
A traffic stop was initiated, and Bryant turned into a nearby parking lot. Upon stopping, the passenger, 26-year-old Shaniya Bryant, exited the vehicle while holding her waistband and attempted to walk away. Detectives issued verbal commands for her to stop. At the same time, Brafranco Bryant exited the vehicle yelling that the firearm was his.
Detectives located a concealed firearm on Shaniya Bryant’s person.
Following the investigation, Brafranco Bryant, who is a convicted felon, was arrested and charged with:
- Possession of a Firearm by a Felon
- Resisting, Obstructing, or Delaying a Public Officer
- No Operator’s License
Shaniya Bryant was initially released at the scene pending further investigation.
Detectives later obtained warrants charging Shaniya Bryant with Felony Aiding and Abetting Possession of a Firearm by a Felon. On February 11, 2026, she was taken into custody.
Brafranco Bryant and Shaniya Bryant are brother and sister.
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