Child Rape Suspect Held On $2.5 Million Bond

A Smithfield man was arrested on outstanding felony warrants Thursday morning during a traffic stop on N. Brightleaf Boulevard.   Frank Anthony Artrip, 44, of E. Crestview Drive, was charged with first degree rape of a child, first degree sex offense of a child, and incest of a child under age 13.

Smithfield Police Captain R. Sheppard said the Department of Social Services notified police Wednesday of the allegations.  Detectives investigated the case and obtained warrants against Artrip.  Captain Sheppard said the alleged incidents occurred over a period of several years.

Artrip was confined in the Johnston County Jail on a $2.5 million secured bond.