Man Charged After Assaulting Deputies at Beaufort County Courthouse

Armani Newkirk allegedly refused to leave, yelled, spit, and physically attacked officers

Mar. 29, 2026 at 4:04pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a pair of handcuffed wrists against a pitch-black background, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash, conceptually illustrating the physical aftermath of a violent incident involving law enforcement.A harsh, gritty close-up of handcuffed wrists highlights the physical realities of a violent confrontation between a citizen and law enforcement.Washington Park Today

A 33-year-old man named Armani Newkirk has been arrested and charged after allegedly assaulting two deputies at the Beaufort County Courthouse in North Carolina. Warrants state that Newkirk refused to leave the magistrate's office, caused a disturbance by yelling and spitting, and then physically attacked the deputies, causing them serious injuries.

Why it matters

Assaults on law enforcement officers are a serious concern, as they put public safety at risk and undermine the ability of police to maintain order in public spaces. This incident at the Beaufort County Courthouse highlights the challenges deputies face in dealing with uncooperative individuals and the need for strong security measures in government buildings.

The details

According to the warrants, Newkirk was at the courthouse's magistrate's office when he refused to leave and began causing a disturbance by yelling and spitting at the two deputies. The deputies then attempted to process another inmate, at which point Newkirk allegedly assaulted them by sitting on them, resulting in serious physical injuries.

  • The incident occurred on Saturday, March 29, 2026.
  • Newkirk's first court appearance is scheduled for Monday, March 31, 2026.

The players

Armani Newkirk

A 33-year-old man who was arrested and charged with assaulting deputies at the Beaufort County Courthouse.

Sheriff Scott Hammonds

The sheriff of Beaufort County, North Carolina, who was contacted for more information about the condition of the deputies involved in the incident.

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What they’re saying

“WITN has reached out to Sheriff Scott Hammonds for more on the condition of the two deputies.”

— WITN Web Team, Reporter

What’s next

Newkirk is being held in the Beaufort County Jail without bond, and his first court appearance is scheduled for Monday, March 31, 2026.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the risks and challenges that law enforcement officers face in maintaining order and safety in public spaces, and the importance of strong security measures and protocols to protect both officers and the public.