GREENVILLE, Pitt County – Sixteen registered sex offenders in Pitt County, North Carolina, have been charged with not following the state’s sex offender registration laws. The Pitt County Sheriff’s Office collaborated with the U.S. Marshals and N.C. Department of Corrections in a joint operation called Operation Heartbreaker in February 2024. The operation aimed to ensure compliance of sex offenders with state laws.
During the operation, law enforcement officers conducted more than 300 checks to verify the adherence of sex offenders to registration requirements. As a result of their efforts, 16 individuals were arrested for violations of the sex offender registry. Each of those charged faces charges of failure to register, and some were also charged with probation or parole violations.
The eight men arrested and their charges include:
– Stephon M. Bandy, 40, of Greenville – charged with failure to register and released on a $10,000 bond.
– Justin C. Dickinson, 46, of Farmville – charged with failure to register and released on a $10,000 bond.
– Linwood E. Green, 60, of Greenville – charged with failure to register and released on a $10,000 bond.
– Ethan Z. Hall, 30, of Greenville – charged with failure to register and released on a $10,000 bond.
– Kwame L. Jenkins, 32, of Greenville – charged with failure to register and probation violation, released on a $35,000 bond.
– Christopher C. Johnson, 47, of Greenville – charged with failure to register and parole violation, jailed without bond.
– Donald M. Little, 29, of Greenville – charged with failure to register and released on a $10,000 bond.
– Laplois J. Lott, 52, of Ayden – charged with failure to register and released on a $25,000 bond.
These arrests highlight the authorities’ dedication to ensuring that sex offenders are compliant with registration laws and restrictions. Failure to register as a sex offender can carry serious consequences as it infringes upon public safety and the rights of the community. The Pitt County Sheriff’s Office continues to prioritize the enforcement of registration laws and will work diligently to hold accountable those who fail to comply.
Sex offender registration laws serve an essential purpose in safeguarding communities and ensuring that individuals with a history of sex offenses are known to law enforcement agencies and the public. By upholding these laws, law enforcement agencies aim to prevent further offenses and provide transparency and accountability.
It is critical for sex offenders to understand the legal obligations placed upon them and the potential consequences for failing to adhere to those requirements. Compliance with sex offender registration laws is not only a legal obligation but also an ethical responsibility to the community. The recent arrests in Pitt County reaffirm the commitment of local law enforcement agencies to maintaining community safety by actively monitoring and enforcing registration laws.
The Pitt County Sheriff’s Office, along with its partnering agencies, will continue to conduct regular checks and operations to ensure sex offenders’ compliance with registration laws. The collaborative efforts between law enforcement agencies help in creating a safe environment for residents and holding offenders accountable for their actions.
It is essential for citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities or potential non-compliance with sex offender registration laws to the appropriate authorities. By working together, communities can help law enforcement agencies maintain the safety and well-being of all residents.