In an unusual and baffling incident in Kinston, North Carolina, a former Little Caesars employee has been arrested after allegedly breaking into one of the chain’s restaurants and selling pizzas to unsuspecting customers. The Kinston Police Department responded to the crime, which unfolded over two separate incidents.
What Happened:
On Sunday, February 1, the Kinston Police Department was called to a Little Caesars after receiving reports of a break-in. Upon investigation, authorities found that Jonathon Hackett, a 41-year-old former employee, had entered the restaurant unlawfully on two occasions.
In the first incident, Hackett reportedly broke into the establishment, prepared pizzas, and sold them to customers. According to police, he kept the $50 he earned from the sale of 10 pizzas for himself. The second incident occurred when Hackett returned to the restaurant while employees were inside. Employees attempted to stop him from entering, leading to a physical altercation. Hackett was injured during the scuffle and was treated at UNC Lenoir before being taken into custody.
Charges and Arrest:
Hackett is currently facing multiple charges, including felony counts of breaking and entering, obtaining property by false pretenses, and larceny after breaking and entering. He has also been charged with a misdemeanor for breaking and entering. Additionally, Hackett was charged with violating a city curfew, which was imposed due to a winter storm. He is being held at the Lenoir County Jail on a $50,000 bond.
Public Reactions and Law Enforcement Comments:
The bizarre nature of the crime has left local authorities and residents puzzled. Kinston Police Chief Keith Goyette expressed his surprise, stating, “It’s nothing I’d ever heard of… In my 26 years of law enforcement here in Kinston, this was a head-scratcher and a first for us.” The unusual crime has become a talking point in the community as residents try to make sense of the strange events.
Looking Ahead:
As the legal process continues, Hackett faces serious charges for his unauthorized actions. His case is a reminder of how sometimes even the most unexpected crimes can unfold in the most ordinary of settings. Authorities continue to investigate, and the community is left to wonder what might prompt someone to break into a business they once worked at and sell the very product they once helped create.
