The founder of KIPP Eastern North Carolina Schools who left the Roanoke Rapids area in April is now wanted by the Halifax County Sheriff’s Office for abandonment and contributing to the delinquency of a juvenile.

Chief Deputy Scott Hall said this evening it remains undetermined why Tammi Elizabeth Sutton, 46, left the area and was reported missing on April 17.

He said she was located on April 20 in Wayne County, but declined elaboration.

On Wednesday, Hall said in a statement, Detective R.M. Brown with the assistance of the county Department of Social Services secured arrest warrants on Sutton for abandonment and contributing to the delinquency of a juvenile.

Hall said the investigation into the missing person report, which determined she left on her own accord, also led investigators to learn her juvenile daughter was left unattended and abandoned. “Miss Sutton hasn’t returned home to her juvenile daughter or attempted to care for her daughter,” Hall said in the statement.

Hall said the daughter is safe and being cared for.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Brown at 252-583-8201, Crimestoppers at 252-583-4444, or by using the P3 Tips app.

Roanoke Rapids Police Department

Chief Bobby Martin reported on Wednesday shortly before 11:30 p.m. Officer J. DeSare was in the area of East Tenth and Carolina streets when he found a vehicle that had been involved in a crash. 

DeSare discovered the driver, identified as Terrence Moody, 27, of Gaston, in the vehicle with minor cuts and abrasions.

DeSare detected the odor of alcohol on the man. 

A witness also provided information. 

DeSare charged Moody with DWI, damage to property and reckless driving. 

Poles, a street sign and fire hydrant were damaged in the crash.

Moody received a $1,500 bond and September 17 court date.