GOLDSBORO, N.C. — A 17-year-old suspect has been arrested and charged as an adult in connection with a robbery that occurred on Poplar Street last month, according to the Goldsboro Police Department.

Details of the Incident

On July 23, 2025, at approximately 1:23 p.m., Goldsboro Police officers responded to reports of a robbery on Poplar Street. The victim has been identified as Zayir Williams, a 19-year-old male from Goldsboro.

The department’s Investigative Services Bureau immediately launched an investigation into the incident and quickly identified a juvenile suspect.

Legal Framework Allows Adult Charges

Under North Carolina’s “Raise the Age” law, 16- and 17-year-olds can be charged as adults when accused of Class A through E felonies. The robbery charges in this case qualified the juvenile suspect to be prosecuted as an adult under this statute.

Arrest and Detention

On August 5, 2025, the suspect was taken into custody with assistance from the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office. The juvenile has been transported to the Pitt County Juvenile Detention Center, where they remain in custody.