Kinston police say teen crimes rise as school year ends

KINSTON, N.C. (WNCT) — Kinston police are taking notice of the recent increase in juvenile arrests.

Two teens, both under age 16, have been arrested in Lenior County in two separate incidents. Kinston police say it’s not necessarily shocking. They say school is almost out and this is when they usually see a spike in teen crime.

Police say the best way to prevent teens from committing crimes is to keep them busy.

“We offer a program here at KPD. The county sheriff’s office offers a program and Parks and Rec has numerous programs throughout the summer that the kids can join to keep them away from criminal activity,” said Kinston Police Maj. K.D. Jenkins.

They’re also encouraging parents to talk to their teens, check in on them and make sure they’re not getting peer pressured into illegal activity.

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