Lenoir County, North Carolina – A 60-year-old Dover man is facing multiple felony and misdemeanor charges following a reported disturbance that escalated into an alleged assault on a deputy and an elderly woman in a rural part of Lenoir County.
According to the Lenoir County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to the area of Tower Hill Road and Dunn Family Road on December 21 after receiving reports of a disturbance involving an individual who had allegedly entered a nearby residence without permission.
Deputies Respond to Disturbance Call
Authorities identified the suspect as Vincent Cox, 60, of Dover. Deputies located Cox on Dunn Family Road, where officials say he became uncooperative during their attempt to detain him.
As a deputy attempted to take Cox into custody, a physical altercation reportedly occurred. Both Cox and the deputy sustained minor injuries during the incident.
Emergency medical assistance was requested, and Cox was transported to UNC Lenoir Health Care for evaluation and treatment.
Alleged Assault Inside Residence
Following the incident, deputies continued investigating the events that led to the call for service. According to investigators, Cox had unlawfully entered a residence on Dunn Family Road prior to deputies arriving on scene.
While inside the home, Cox allegedly pushed an elderly female resident, prompting family members to intervene and remove him from the residence. Authorities noted that the victim is considered an individual with a disability, which elevated the seriousness of the alleged assault.
No additional injuries to the victim were reported at the scene.
Drug Evidence Discovered
During the investigation, deputies reported discovering a Schedule II controlled substance on Cox’s person. Officials later confirmed the substance was cocaine, leading to an additional felony drug charge.
Law enforcement officials emphasized that Schedule II substances are classified under North Carolina law as having a high potential for abuse, with possession carrying significant legal penalties.
Charges Filed Against Suspect
As a result of the incident, Vincent Cox was formally charged with the following offenses:
- Felony assault on a law enforcement officer inflicting personal injury
- Felony possession of cocaine
- Misdemeanor breaking and entering
- Misdemeanor assault on an individual with a disability
Authorities noted that the felony assault charge stems directly from the altercation with the responding deputy.
Detention and Bond Set
After receiving medical treatment at UNC Lenoir, Cox was released from the hospital and transported to the W.E. Billy Smith Detention Center in Lenoir County.
A secured bond of $150,000 was issued, meaning Cox must post the full bond amount or meet secured bond requirements before being eligible for release.
Jail records indicate Cox remains in custody pending further court proceedings.
Ongoing Legal Process
The Lenoir County Sheriff’s Office stated that the case remains under investigation and that additional information may be released as court dates are scheduled. No further details about the condition of the elderly victim or the injured deputy were immediately provided.
Officials also reminded the public that all suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Conclusion
What began as a disturbance call in a quiet rural area escalated into a serious criminal case involving alleged assault, drug possession, and injuries to both a deputy and an elderly resident. The incident highlights the unpredictable nature of law enforcement responses and the legal consequences that can follow when situations turn violent.
Residents with information related to this case are encouraged to contact the Lenoir County Sheriff’s Office.
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