Arrest made in stolen vehicle investigation

On February 15, 2026, at approximately 8:46 p.m., officers with the Kinston Police Department’s C-Squad responded to a residence in the 600 block of East Lenoir Avenue in reference to a disturbance. Upon arrival, officers made contact with the victim, who reported that 41-year-old Zebroan Artis had taken her keys and stolen her vehicle.

While canvassing the area, officers located the stolen vehicle unoccupied at the Carver Court Apartments. Officers maintained surveillance and reviewed video footage, which showed Artis and another unidentified male exiting the vehicle and entering an apartment.

Officers responded to the apartment and attempted to make contact; however, no one answered the door. Based on the information obtained and video evidence, officers secured a search warrant for the apartment.

During the execution of the search warrant, Zebroan Artis, 41-year-old Elenore Hargrove, and 34-year-old Deontae Lender were located inside. Artis was taken into custody without incident and charged in connection with the investigation.

Hargrove was arrested and charged with Resisting, Delaying, and Obstructing a Public Officer. Lender was found to have an outstanding warrant from the Lenoir County Sheriff’s Office for Non-Support of a Child and was transferred to the custody of the Sheriff’s Office.

Artis remains in custody at the Lenoir County Jail. Hargrove was released after meeting her bond requirements.