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Kinston Today
By the People, for the People
Kinston Police Make Notable Arrests
Charges include drug possession, DWI, and property damage
Mar. 31, 2026 at 9:22am
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A recent wave of property damage and vandalism incidents in Kinston has law enforcement on high alert.Kinston TodayThe Kinston Police Department has reported a series of notable arrests over the past three days, including charges for drug possession, driving while impaired, resisting arrest, and property damage. The arrests occurred between March 28-30, 2026 and involved individuals from across eastern North Carolina.
Why it matters
These arrests highlight ongoing public safety concerns in the Kinston area, including the persistent issues of substance abuse, drunk driving, and criminal behavior. The incidents also demonstrate the work of local law enforcement to apprehend wanted suspects and address a range of offenses impacting the community.
The details
On March 28, police arrested Leon May, 67, of Grifton on charges of possession of a Schedule II controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, driving with a revoked license, no insurance, and an unrelated outstanding warrant. Also on March 28, Arlethia Moore, 58, of Kinston was charged with possession of crack cocaine and drug paraphernalia. The following day, Latoya Cooper, 46, of Kinston was arrested for driving while impaired, and Janiyah Johnson, 20, of Snow Hill was charged with being intoxicated and disruptive, resisting arrest, injury to personal property, underage alcohol consumption, and failure to disperse. On March 30, Jonathan Best, 37, of Goldsboro was arrested on an outstanding warrant from the North Carolina Highway Patrol for hit-and-run.
- The arrests occurred between March 28-30, 2026.
- The charges stem from incidents that took place on those respective dates.
The players
Leon May
A 67-year-old resident of Grifton, North Carolina who was arrested on drug and driving-related charges.
Arlethia Moore
A 58-year-old Kinston resident who was charged with possession of crack cocaine and drug paraphernalia.
Latoya Cooper
A 46-year-old Kinston resident who was arrested for driving while impaired.
Janiyah Johnson
A 20-year-old resident of Snow Hill, North Carolina who was charged with being intoxicated and disruptive, resisting arrest, injury to personal property, underage alcohol consumption, and failure to disperse.
Jonathan Best
A 37-year-old Goldsboro, North Carolina resident who was arrested on an outstanding warrant from the North Carolina Highway Patrol for hit-and-run.
The takeaway
These arrests demonstrate the ongoing challenges faced by law enforcement in the Kinston area, including substance abuse, drunk driving, and other criminal behavior. While the specific details of each case vary, the incidents highlight the need for continued vigilance and community-based solutions to address public safety concerns.
