In a recent turn of events, a Lewiston-Woodville man faces federal charges for the possession of a firearm by a convicted felon after allegedly firing at Bertie County deputies. Dominique Javon Thompson, 34, was presented in federal court for his initial appearance, as confirmed by the U.S. Attorney's Office.
The confrontation began when Bertie County Deputies responded to a call about an armed individual at a Lewiston-Woodville residence, per information from the Criminal Complaint. It is alleged that Thompson, upon the deputies' arrival, discharged his weapon at their patrol vehicles, causing damage but no physical harm to the law enforcement officers, nor their K-9 partner. After the shooting, Thompson is said to have evaded the scene in a White Hyundai Elantra, with investigations leading to Kinston where the abandoned vehicle was discovered, as reported by the U.S. Attorney's Office.
Kinston Police Department, tipped off about Thompson's potential connections in the area, located him in another car during a traffic stop and detained him. A firearm, matching the description of the weapon used in the Bertie County shooting, was found inside the glovebox of the vehicle where Thompson was apprehended.
Acting United States Attorney Daniel P. Bubar expressed the agency's commitment, "We will work quickly and tirelessly to investigate anyone who tries to inflict violence against our law enforcement partners, and break federal laws, as alleged in the complaint," he said. Bertie County Sheriff Tyrone M. Ruffin reflected on the dangers faced by deputies, stating, “Law enforcement officers dedicate themselves to public service, and we leave home daily not knowing if we will return. We are thankful for the partnerships of our local, state, and federal resources,” as per the U.S. Attorney's Office.
The diligence of multiple law enforcement agencies including the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; and local police departments from Bertie, Martin, Lenoir Counties, along with the State Highway Patrol, helped ensure the apprehension of Thompson. Facing a significant prison sentence if convicted—up to 15 years—Thompson’s case is currently being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Phil Aubart.
