Kinston traffic stop leads to marijuana, firearms charges

On May 29, 2026, at approximately 8:16 PM, KPD's B-Squad conducted a traffic stop on Highway 11 North for a motor vehicle violation.

During the stop, officers observed evidence of narcotics activity. As the investigation progressed, one of the occupants produced a shoebox containing approximately 61 grams of factory-packaged marijuana. A search of the vehicle also resulted in the seizure of two firearms and $1,198 in U.S. currency.

The driver, 19-year-old Ki'mari Shelton of Columbia, NC, and two juvenile passengers were taken into custody.

Shelton was charged with:

• PWISD Marijuana

• Contributing to the Delinquency of a Minor (2 Counts)

• Conspiracy to Sell/Deliver Marijuana

• Maintaining a Vehicle for Controlled Substances

• Carrying a Concealed Gun

KPD will be working with Juvenile Justice to obtain juvenile petitions for both juveniles for PWISD Marijuana, Conspiracy to Sell/Deliver Marijuana, and Carrying a Concealed Gun.