Police investigators have arrested a Clinton man in connection with an assault/kidnapping case that took place on July 15.

Acting on a citizen’s tip, investigators arrested Jermelle Lavar Smith, 29, of 304 Turlington St., Clinton, and charged him with assault with a deadly weapon with intent to inflict serious injury and kidnapping.

The arrest stems from a dispute between two men — the suspect and the victim, Victor Caldwell, 50, of 711 Stetson St., Clinton.

According to reports, on the evening of July 15, Smith allegedly went to Caldwell’s home and “lured” him to his vehicle under false pretenses.

“Basically, there was a dispute and Smith went to the victim’s house and got him into the vehicle,” said Clinton police Capt. Jay Tilley. “Once he got him in the vehicle, he took him to another location and beat him.”

Tilley said Smith brought a severely beaten Caldwell back to his home and dropped him into a ditch.

“He was alive, but not conscience when he was found,” Tilley said. “After we were able to interview him, we got the suspect’s information.”

A tip from a citizen led investigators to 302 Eastover Road early Saturday at 2 a.m. and Smith was taken to the Sampson County Detention Center without incident.

Smith was placed under a $50,000 secured bond and was given a trail date of Aug. 21.

To reach Doug Clark call 910-592-8137 ext. 123 or send e-mail to sisports@myclintonnc.com.