The charges filed against Cleve Edwards Fleming, 52, of Littleton, stem from the illegal possession of a electronic benefits card which was mistakenly mailed to his address, Chief Chuck Hasty said.

Hasty said between $700 to $800 worth of purchases were made on the card leading to 11 counts of identity theft and a count of illegal possession and use of a food stamp card.

The charges stem from an investigation by Investigator G.L. Williams which began February of last year when a report was filed.

Master Officer J. Benthall and Officer C. Batchelor apprehended Fleming around 11:45 this morning in the city limits.

He received a $15,000 bond and September 9 court date.

Investigator J.K. Davis assisted.

Traffic stop

Hasty also reported on Tuesday around 9 p.m. Officer Joe DeSare conducted a traffic stop in a Premier Boulevard parking lot for a violation.

During the officer’s encounter with the driver, vehicle passenger Archilles Devalo Bhuya, 32, of Roanoke Rapids, attempted to flee from the vehicle.  

Bhuya threw items down and after a brief foot chase was taken into custody.  

DeSare found the items were narcotics and paraphernalia and also discovered Bhuya was wanted by the Weldon Police Department for a true bill of indictment for burglary, larceny after breaking and entering and conspiracy as well as another outstanding order for arrest.

Bhuya was charged with possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia and resisting, delaying and obstructing an officer.

He was served the outstanding true bill and order for arrest.

He received a $31,500 bond and August 18 court date.

Lieutenant J. Baggett and Officer J. Fortier assisted.