Police: Video Evidence Leads To Arrest In Selma Child Abuse Case

SELMA, N.C. — A former candidate for Selma Town Council has been arrested and charged following a domestic incident involving a juvenile.

According to the Selma Police Department, Troy Mathew LaPlante, 37, of West Anderson Street, was taken into custody April 14 after officers responded to his home.

Police said the call involved a disturbance between LaPlante and the juvenile. During the investigation, officers reportedly obtained cellphone video recorded by a third party that captured the incident.

According to an arrest warrant, LaPlante is accused of intentionally assaulting the 14 year-old and causing serious physical injury by choking him to the point he could not breathe. The warrant notes that LaPlante is the child’s parent.

Johnston County EMS responded to the home and evaluated the juvenile. The Johnston County Department of Social Services also responded and is conducting a separate investigation.

LaPlante was transported to the Johnston County Detention Center and charged with felony intentional child abuse resulting in serious physical injury.

A magistrate set his bond at $100,000 secured. According to the magistrate’s release order, LaPlante “appeared to not be remorseful of his action; no care attitude” and told an officer “he would choke the victim again.”

LaPlante previously ran an unsuccessful campaign for Selma Town Council in 2021.

Police said the investigation remains ongoing.