One suspect in robberies caught
By John Joyce
Published in News on June 18, 2015 1:46 PM
One of three suspects wanted in connection with the attempted armed robbery and the armed robbery of two Internet sweepstakes cafes in Goldsboro June 3 is in custody, according to a Goldsboro Police Department press release.
The two additional suspects -- whose names have not yet been made public -- remain at large. One person was injured during the successful robbery.
Cedric Levern Smalls, 31, of 706 W. Chestnut St., is charged with attempted armed robbery, armed robbery and assault with a deadly weapon. He is currently being held in the Wayne County Detention Center under a $500,000 secured bond.
Smalls and two accomplices first tried to break into the Longhorn's Business Center at 1716 U.S. Highway 117 S. The three men were able to get through the first security door but not the second and eventually moved on.
The trio struck next at the Hi-5 Internet cafe at 565 E. New Hope Road. One of the men went into the business and asked what the requirements were to play the games. As he exited the business, the other two men rushed in, brandished weapons and robbed the business as well as the patrons. Prior to leaving, one of the suspects fired a round into the floor. A ricochet struck an employee in the leg causing a minor injury.
Smalls was identified throughout the course of the investigation. Electronic warrants were secured for his arrest on the subsequent charges and he was arrested Tuesday in Wake County.
Anyone with information regarding the robbery is asked to contact Crime Stoppers at 919-735-2255, or text tips to 919-222-4230. Callers can remain anonymous and information leading to a felony arrest is eligible for a cash reward of up to $1,000.