Smith

Smith

A man is facing a slew of felony offenses in connection with a break-in to Piney Grove Fire Department, which reportedly needed to borrow equipment from other stations to remain operational. After arresting one suspect, investigators are currently working to recover the stolen property and identify others involved in the incident.

Earlier this month, deputies with the Sampson County Sheriff’s Office responded to a reported breaking and entering at Piney Grove Fire Department in the Faison area. Sheriff’s investigators responded to the scene and discovered more than $100,000 worth of firefighting equipment had been stolen.

Due to the substantial loss in equipment, the Piney Grove Fire Department had to place one engine out of service and use equipment from other fire stations to remain operational, according to authorities.

Investigators were able to identify one of four suspects from security camera video, obtaining warrants on Amari Nasir Smith, 22, of Rose Hill, NC. Smith was discovered to be on house arrest with probation in Pender County, but his monitor had been disabled, authorities said.

On May 17, officers with the Clinton Police Department observed Smith walking in the Eastover Terrace neighborhood in Clinton and took him into custody. Smith was transported to the Sheriff’s Office, where he was turned over to investigators and served with multiple outstanding warrants.

Smith is now facing charges of felony breaking and entering, felony larceny and felony possession of stolen goods in connection with the breaking and entering at Piney Grove Fire Department. He was also served with outstanding orders for arrest in Sampson County for possession with intent to sell and deliver marijuana, selling marijuana and delivering marijuana.

Additionally, he was charged on a Craven County warrant with possession of firearm by felon and two out-of-county probation violations from Pender County. He was given no bond.

Anyone who may have information is encouraged to contact investigators at 910-592-4141.