Arrest of Newton Grove Police Chief Greg Warren: A Serious Scandal

In a shocking turn of events, Newton Grove Police Chief Greg Warren was arrested on Wednesday, facing multiple serious charges including secret peeping and indecent liberties with a minor. The allegations have sent shockwaves through the small community, where residents are grappling with the unsettling news about someone they trusted to protect them.

Details of the Charges

Chief Warren is facing seven felony charges following an investigation led by the Sampson County Sheriff’s Office in collaboration with agents from the State Bureau of Investigation (SBI). The specific charges against him include:

• 1 felony count of indecent liberties with a minor
• 2 felony counts of secret peeping
• 4 felony counts of possessing images derived from secret peeping

The investigation revealed that the offenses reportedly occurred in 2023, further raising concerns about trust and safety within the police department.

Public Reactions

The community’s reaction to Warren’s arrest has been one of disbelief and concern. Local resident April Newkirk shared her feelings, stating, “I would have never expected it, but you never know. The point I’m at with the Newton Grove Police Department, I’d rather not be around them.” Her sentiment reflects a growing mistrust among residents who look to law enforcement for protection.

Allegations and Evidence

According to court documents, Chief Warren is accused of entering the victim’s bedroom while she was asleep and taking unauthorized photographs of her. This invasion of privacy is a grave violation of trust, especially coming from someone in a position of authority.

During his first court appearance on Thursday, a prosecutor revealed that inappropriate pictures were discovered on an iPad linked to Warren’s phone. It was reported that Warren admitted to taking these pictures both to a family member and to law enforcement, deepening the gravity of the situation and raising questions about his judgment and ethics.

Detention and Legal Proceedings

Warren is currently being held at the Sampson County Detention Center without bond, raising further alarm about the seriousness of the allegations against him. A bond hearing is scheduled for January 15, where more details about his case may be revealed.

In an effort to maintain impartiality, the Sampson County District Attorney’s office has stated that the case will be handled by a conference of district attorneys. This step underscores the complexity of the case and the need for transparency in the legal proceedings moving forward.

Previous Incidents

This isn’t the first time Chief Warren has been in the news. In 2021, he was involved in a controversial incident where he was captured on video shooting a man after a confrontation at a convenience store. This prior episode has led some to question his leadership and judgement even before these latest charges came to light.

Community Impact

As the investigation unfolds, the community of Newton Grove faces a tumultuous period. Trust in the police department is at stake, and residents are left wondering how such an incident could occur under their nose. The implications of such charges are significant, not only for Warren but also for the fabric of trust that holds the community and its law enforcement together.