WAYNE COUNTY, N.C. — A local man is in custody after Wayne County Sheriff’s Office deputies apprehended him during a foot chase that followed the discovery of a stolen vehicle at a gas station earlier this month. The arrest led to multiple charges, including felony possession of a stolen motor vehicle and resisting law enforcement.
According to a report from the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office, on the evening of June 9, 2025, patrol deputies were conducting routine surveillance when they identified a vehicle matching the description of one reported stolen in a previous incident. The vehicle was parked at a gas station near the intersection of U.S. Highway 70 East and N.C. Highway 111 South, a busy commercial area often monitored for criminal activity.
Deputies observed the vehicle while its operator was outside pumping gas. As deputies approached to investigate, the suspect immediately fled the scene on foot. A brief foot chase ensued through the surrounding area. Deputies quickly apprehended the suspect without incident and took him into custody.
The suspect was later identified as Jeremiah Z. Merritt, a 21-year-old Black male. A subsequent investigation revealed that Merritt was not only operating a stolen vehicle but was also wanted by probation officers for violating the conditions of his release. In addition, he had active absconder warrants—legal documents issued when a probationer evades supervision.
Merritt was formally charged with the following:
- Felony Possession of a Stolen Motor Vehicle
- Misdemeanor Resist, Delay, or Obstruct a Public Officer
He was transported to the Wayne County Jail, where he was processed and served with his outstanding warrants. Merritt is currently being held without bond, pending further legal proceedings.
Authorities continue to investigate the origin of the stolen vehicle and whether additional suspects may be involved. No injuries were reported during the incident.
Members of the public with any information related to this case or other criminal activity in the area are encouraged to contact the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office.
