KPDS investigates home invasion, robbery

The Kinston Department of Public Safety is investigating two violent crimes that were reported this week.

At 9:04 p.m. Monday, Jayir Smith, 16, of 810 N. College St., reported he and two of his friends were robbed at gunpoint in his backyard.

“The victims stated three masked black males — one of whom was brandishing a handgun — ran towards them and searched their pockets,” Woody Spencer of the KDPS said. “The victims were then ordered into a storage shed adjacent to the property.”

According to an incident report, the suspects made away with $70 cash and an cell phone valued at $400.

Ten minutes later, Cynthia Mainor, 57, of Joyner Drive reported four armed suspects forced their way into her residence and demanded money.

“The victim stated that four boys entered her apartment by opening an unlocked door,” Spencer said.

According to the victim, two of the boys were carrying guns, while the other two were carrying rifles.

“They asked the victim for money, but she told them she didn’t have any,” Spencer said. “She said they then got upset and left.”

A description of the suspects was not available.

Anyone with information that could lead to an arrest is asked to call the KDPS at 252-559-3160.

Jon Dawson can be reached at 252-559-1083 or jdawson@freedomenc.com.