On March 21, 2026, a 33-year-old Pitt County woman was arrested following a narcotics investigation into the distribution of illegal controlled substances throughout Lenoir County.
BJ Murphy: Your News Experience Just Got an Upgrade
While I've stepped back from day-to-day editorial decisions, I've shifted my focus to growing our news portfolio, expanding our high school sports coverage into Wayne County, and delivering stronger video and social media services to our clients. That work continues, and today I'm excited to share a couple of updates that I believe will improve your experience across all of our platforms.
KPD CONNECT launches community safety forum series in Kinston
The Kinston Police Department is launching KPD CONNECT, which stands for Continued Outreach Network for Engagement, Community and Trust, as a new community safety forum series aimed at bringing conversations about public safety directly to residents.
Paint the Town invites community to paint Kinston landmarks
Artists of all ages and skill levels are being invited to capture Kinston on canvas during “Paint the Town,” an outdoor community art event set for Saturday, April 11.
KPD: DWI Arrest Following Two-Vehicle Crash
On March 24, 2026, officers with the Kinston Police Department’s A-Squad responded to a two-vehicle motor vehicle crash at the intersection of NC Highway 58 and Cunningham Road.
KPD: Man Arrested for Damaging Cemetery Headstones
On March 24, 2026, officers with the Kinston Police Department’s C-Squad responded to Maplewood Cemetery on South Queen Street in reference to a report of a masked male armed with two swords who was damaging headstones.
KPD: LaGrange Man Arrested For Drug Charges
On March 24, 2026, members of the Kinston Police Department’s VCAT conducted a traffic stop involving 22-year-old Broadus Bratton Jr. of LaGrange.
Beyond the Page series to spotlight poets, artists and storytellers in Kinston
Neuse Regional Libraries is excited to host Beyond the Page: Creative Voices in the Community, a monthly arts and storytelling series led by Kinston native Celestine Davis.
Obituary: Laura “Gaye” Powell
Laura “Gaye” Powell, 59, passed away peacefully on Friday, March 20, 2026, at Kitty Askins Hospice Center after a long health battle. The family will host a memorial service at Christian Chapel Original Free Will Baptist Church in Pink Hill on Saturday March 28, 2026 at 11:00 am. A preceding burial service for family will be held on Thursday March 26, 2026 at 11:00 am at Pikeville Cemetery in Pikeville, NC.
Pink Hill man faces animal cruelty charges after 20 dogs seized
A Lenoir County resident has been arrested and charged with animal cruelty after multiple animals were found in severely emaciated conditions.
KPD: Trespassing Call at McDonald’s Leads to Arrest
On March 24, 2026, officers with the Kinston Police Department responded to McDonald’s on Vernon Avenue in reference to a trespassing complaint. Upon arrival, officers made contact with the store manager, who advised that a male subject inside the business had been asked multiple times to leave but refused.
Sarah Sever steps into interim library director role at Neuse Regional Libraries
Sarah Sever has been named interim director of libraries for Neuse Regional Libraries, stepping into the role following Melanie Morgan’s departure.
UNC Rural visits Jones County for community conversation
TRENTON — Community leaders, elected officials and residents gathered Wednesday at the Sen. Harry Brown Center at Jones Senior High School for a discussion focused on Jones County’s needs, strengths and future partnerships.
Obituary: Susan Edwards Moore
Susan Edwards Moore, 76, of Kinston, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on Thursday, March 19, surrounded by her family after a battle with cancer. A celebration of her beautiful life will be held at Edwards Funeral Home in Kinston, NC, on Saturday, March 28, 2026. A visitation with the family will be held from 10:30–12:00, with a funeral service following at noon. Graveside services will be private.
Kinston Police Department Arrest Recap: March 19–21, 2026
Kinston Police Department released its arrest recap for March 19-21, 2026.
Ag Day gives sixth graders insight into a key aspect of Lenoir County’s economy and lifestyle
How do cows and pigs contribute to medical care? What’s the recipe for photosynthesis? Why are green plants green? How do snakes hear? If you’re stumped, ask the 600 LCPS sixth graders that turned out to learn this week at Lenoir County’s first-ever Ag Day.
Lenoir County restaurant inspections
The following restaurant inspections were conducted by the Lenoir County Health Department:
Mike Parker: ‘Life’s Little Instructions’ struck pedagogical pay dirt
Thinking back to the years I spent as a classroom teacher sometimes makes me proud. One of a teacher’s most gratifying experiences is giving students an assignment that seems to resonate with them – well, most of them.
Snow Hill Primary Terrific Kid Awards
Snow Hill Primary gives out a weekly award called "Terrific Kid" awards. Each teacher at SHP chooses a student who has been responsible, shows great character, or has reached a personal goal. On Fridays, these students are presented with an award and are congratulated for their hard work. Below are Snow Hill Primary's Terrific Kid Awards!
LCSO: Lenoir County Sheriff’s Office Arrests Two on Outstanding Warrants
On March 21, 2026, deputies with the Lenoir County Sheriff’s Office received information from concerned citizens regarding possible wanted subjects in the area of Hardy Bridge Road.