Report: Woman Attacked Outside Johnston County Courthouse
January 10, 2026
This story has been updated: Suspect Arrested In Courthouse Parking Lot Attack
January 7, 2026
SMITHFIELD — A Johnston County woman was attacked and robbed outside the Johnston County Courthouse in downtown Smithfield on Monday afternoon.
The incident occurred around 12:40 p.m., minutes after the 31-year-old woman had appeared in court with the male suspect in a domestic-related case, according to the Smithfield Police Department.
Police said the suspect followed the woman to her vehicle after court, pushed her to the ground and attempted to force her into his nearby car. During the struggle, the suspect allegedly threw the woman to the ground a second time and stole her car key and four debit and credit cards.
The victim reported the incident to Smithfield Police. Officers later recovered the woman’s stolen cell phone near the Neuse River Greenway, but the suspect was not located.
Warrants have been obtained for the suspect’s arrest. Once apprehended, he is expected to face charges including common law robbery, second-degree kidnapping, false imprisonment, assault on a female, financial card theft, and a crime of domestic violence.
Police said the victim and suspect had previously been in a relationship. The woman sustained minor injuries and did not require hospitalization.
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That’s just messed up!
Posting a pic of the suspect might help to find him.
idiot……….
Who’s reporting? There’s no picture or name
Photo sharing might help
I would post his pic so much!!!!!!! Wow!!! A coward to even touch a woman!!!! A punk coward to run away like a little girl!!!! This makes me mad!!!😡
Our justice system is a joke. Criminals have more rights than the victims. Meanwhile, our illustrious transplant Governor feels that jail isn’t the answer. Give me a break.
That’s what happens when the court house has no cameras my tire was stabbed up there after court
Thank goodness she is alright physically. My next thought is wasn’t there anyone around to intervene? This was in the middle of the day in 1 of the busiest parts of town. I can’t believe that no one was nearby to intervene and bring him down.
I bet they dismissed the charges he was there for or put him on probation.
I’ve experienced this firsthand in JoCo, and it is deeply traumatizing. During court breaks and when leaving the courthouse, families can end up crossing paths with the accused, their family, and even jurors, with little to no protection. Being put in those situations during an already painful process adds lasting harm. Do better, JoCo.
Security is in the courthouse, do not leave the courthouse if you feel there is a threat. Also you could request a police escort and wait for assistance if you feel threatened. Just a few ideas along with being aware of your surroundings
According to the Smithfield Police Department Facebook page, this person has been captured! They posted his picture and everything. Thank God that he has been captured as I can only imagine the fear that the girl has been going through.
Additionally, I am at a loss as to why JoCo Report did not post his picture or follow up on this case. It’s definitely not the same since the Carl Lamn family sold it.