On November 11, 2024, the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office launched an investigation after receiving a report of Breaking and Entering and Larceny in the Genoa Road area of Dudley, NC. Authorities discovered that several buildings, including a residence, had been broken into on multiple occasions. The investigation led to the identification of two suspects, James Richard Godwin and Ervin Lee Gurganus Jr., who were both charged in connection with the crimes. Additionally, the suspects were linked to a prior incident involving the breaking and entering of a motor vehicle on November 10, 2024, in which a cell phone and other items were stolen.

Godwin, 56, of Dudley, faces multiple charges including Felony Breaking and Entering, Larceny, Felony Obtaining Property by False Pretenses (three counts), Possession of Stolen Goods, Obstruction, and Felony Breaking and Entering a Motor Vehicle with Larceny. His bond has been set at $16,000. Gurganus, 44, also from Dudley, faces the same charges with a bond set at $2,500.

On November 27, 2024, while in custody for the charges, Godwin managed to slip out of his restraints during a transfer at the Magistrate’s Office, briefly escaping before being quickly located. He was taken back into custody after a brief search. Additional charges for escape are pending.

The investigation is ongoing, and authorities continue to follow up on leads. For more information, residents are encouraged to stay informed through the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office.