Duplin County Man Arrested for Threatening Judge and Sheriff on Social Media

Matthew Lane Tart, 37, faces three felony counts of threats against executive, legislative or court officers.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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The North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation has arrested a Teachey man named Matthew Lane Tart, 37, and charged him with three felony counts of making threats against a Duplin County Superior Court judge, the county sheriff, and members of the sheriff's office staff. Tart allegedly made several threatening statements directed at these officials on social media.

Why it matters

Threats against public officials, especially those in the judicial and law enforcement systems, are taken very seriously as they can undermine the rule of law and public safety. This arrest highlights the importance of monitoring and addressing such threats, particularly when they occur on social media platforms.

The details

According to the SBI, Tart was taken into custody by agents with the SBI's Coastal District and charged with three felony counts of threats against executive, legislative or court officers. The investigation into Tart's alleged social media threats is still ongoing.

  • Tart was arrested on February 11, 2026.

The players

Matthew Lane Tart

A 37-year-old man from Teachey, North Carolina who was arrested and charged with three felony counts of making threats against a Duplin County judge and sheriff on social media.

Duplin County Superior Court Judge

A judge in Duplin County, North Carolina who was allegedly threatened by Tart on social media.

Stratton Stokes

The sheriff of Duplin County, North Carolina who was allegedly threatened by Tart on social media.

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What’s next

The investigation into Tart's alleged threats remains ongoing, according to the SBI.

The takeaway

This arrest underscores the seriousness with which law enforcement treats threats made against public officials, especially those in the judicial and law enforcement systems. Social media platforms continue to be a venue for such threats, highlighting the need for vigilance and swift action to address them.