Ongoing Crime/Public Safety Enforcement in JoCo
Key Questions
What arrests occurred during a recent search warrant in Johnston County?
Seven people were arrested on drug-related charges after Johnston County Sheriff’s deputies executed a search warrant at a home in Four Oaks. Johnston DSS took custody of three children following the bust, with Amber Gibson arrested.
What happened in the active shooter incident at the Smithfield plant?
An active shooter response at the Smithfield AAF Flanders plant was resolved with Jesus Bermudez charged with murder after allegedly shooting his wife; he is held without bond.
What new laws did Governor Stein sign affecting Johnston County?
Governor Stein signed HB 481 and HB 83 into law on July 2, 2026, along with other bills addressing law enforcement, housing, and state employment.
What traffic incidents resulted in charges in Johnston County recently?
A fatal US 70 crash killed a former JMU lineman with charges filed, and a 79-year-old woman died in a head-on crash on McLemore Road, also resulting in charges.
What is the status of the ALPR expansion bill?
ALPR expansion bill HB 206 is now under Senate consideration after advancing in the NC House.
Multiple high-profile cases continue. New: fatal US 70 crash kills former JMU lineman, charges filed; Smithfield homeowner burned in house fire; NC House passes 'Dominique Moody Safety Act' (details pending). Active shooter response at Smithfield AAF Flanders plant resolved—Jesus Bermudez charged with murder after wife shot, held without bond. 79-year-old woman dies in head-on crash on McLemore Road, charges filed; Knights Inn Selma ordered closed and forfeited; Deputy captures dirt bike rider near Clayton (second suspect still at large). Two Johnston Jail inmates charged after alleged cell assault. ALPR expansion bill (HB 206) now under Senate consideration. Johnston DSS takes custody of three children after drug bust (Amber Gibson arrested). Governor Stein signs HB 481 and HB 83. New: Pedestrian hit by SUV in Selma (non-life-threatening); person found dead in vehicle at Clayton Lowe's Foods parking lot (police investigating, no foul play suspected yet).