Kinston Police Department: Social media threats lead to terrorism arrest

On Thursday, May 28, 2026, the Kinston Police Department received information regarding social media videos allegedly posted by 43-year-old Justin Church of Kinston that contained threats directed toward law enforcement and judicial officials within Lenoir County.

Investigators reviewed the publicly available videos, which had been posted on TikTok. During the investigation, officers determined the threats were directed at personnel of the Kinston Police Department, the Lenoir County Sheriff's Office, and Lenoir County Courthouse staff, including judges, prosecutors, and other courthouse employees. The threats referenced the use of a hydrogen-based explosive device.

Due to the nature of the threats, investigators consulted with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). Based on the information obtained during the investigation, officers developed probable cause to seek criminal charges. Arrest warrants were obtained for Church, along with a search warrant for his residence.

Church was subsequently located in the area of Heritage Street and taken into custody without incident.

Following his arrest, investigators executed the search warrant at Church's residence. During the search, officers located and seized multiple items of evidence.

Church was transported to the Lenoir County Jail, where he was held without bond on the following charges:

• Manufacture, Assemble, or Possess a Weapon of Mass Destruction (Felony)

• Threaten Executive, Legislative, Court, or Local Government Officials (Felony)

• Terrorism (Felony)

"We respect and protect every person's First Amendment rights. However, threatening to commit acts of mass violence is not protected speech. When credible threats are made against law enforcement, courthouse personnel, elected officials, or the public, we will investigate them thoroughly and take action when the facts support criminal charges. The safety of our community is not something we are willing to gamble with." - Chief Keith Goyette

This investigation remains ongoing. To protect the integrity of the investigation and any potential future prosecution, no additional information will be released at this time. The Kinston Police Department will not provide further comment regarding this case unless and until additional information is deemed appropriate for release.