Kinston, North Carolina, February 4, 2026
Jonathon Hackett, a former employee of a Kinston Little Caesars, faces multiple felony charges for allegedly breaking in twice over the weekend, unauthorized pizza production, and selling them to unsuspecting customers. The situation escalated during a second break-in attempt resulting in a physical confrontation with staff. Hackett is currently in custody at Lenoir County Jail. This case has sparked concerns about employee trust and business security.
KINSTON, North Carolina
Former Employee Accused of Unauthorized Operations and Multiple Break-ins at Local Pizza Establishment
A former employee of a Kinston Little Caesars restaurant is facing multiple felony charges after allegedly breaking into the establishment on two separate occasions last weekend, engaging in unauthorized pizza production, sales, and retaining the proceeds. The individual, identified as Jonathon Hackett, 41, reportedly entered the business outside operating hours, utilizing his past employment knowledge to access the premises and operate the kitchen. These events have led to a swift police response and arrest, highlighting concerns about business security and the actions of former employees.
The alleged incidents unfolded over the past weekend. In the first instance, Hackett is accused of unlawfully entering the Little Caesars location, where he then proceeded to prepare pizzas. He subsequently sold these pizzas to unsuspecting customers and pocketed the money from the transactions. This initial act of alleged illicit pizza sales went undetected for a period, allowing the individual to carry out the scheme.
A second, more confrontational incident occurred when Hackett allegedly attempted to break into the restaurant again while employees were present. This led to a physical altercation as staff members tried to prevent his entry. During the confrontation, Hackett sustained injuries and was subsequently transported to a local hospital for treatment. Following his release from medical care, authorities arrested him in connection with the alleged crimes.
Hackett has been taken into custody and is currently held at the Lenoir County Jail. He faces a range of serious charges, including Felony breaking and/or entering, Felony obtaining property by false pretenses, Felony larceny after breaking and entering, and Misdemeanor breaking and entering. These charges underscore the severity of the alleged actions, which involve both unauthorized entry and the fraudulent acquisition of funds and property. The Kinston Police Department has been actively involved in the investigation and subsequent arrest, issuing a statement regarding the incidents on February 2.
The community has reacted with surprise to the unusual nature of the alleged offenses, particularly the aspect of a former employee operating a business clandestinely to sell products. The investigation is ongoing, and further details may emerge as the legal process continues. The case serves as a notable example of the varied challenges businesses face in maintaining security, even from individuals with prior access and knowledge of their operations.
Additional Recent Developments Across North Carolina
Swift Apprehension in Wadesboro Bank Robbery
In other significant news from North Carolina within the last 48 hours, authorities in Wadesboro successfully apprehended a suspect in connection with a bank robbery that occurred on Tuesday afternoon. The incident took place at a State Employees Credit Union in Wadesboro.
According to police reports, a male suspect entered the credit union and passed a note to a teller, demanding money. The suspect then fled the scene with approximately $5,500. Bank employees promptly activated a panic alarm, triggering an immediate response from local law enforcement.
The apprehension was swift, largely due to the rapid actions of the Wadesboro police chief, who located the suspect behind the bank shortly after the alarm was raised. The chief successfully took the individual into custody without incident. Authorities confirmed that the suspect was unarmed, and no weapons were involved during the robbery. This quick resolution ensured public safety and prevented further escalation.
Following the arrest, the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation was called to the scene to assist with the ongoing investigation. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) was also notified, indicating the potential for broader implications or the need for federal assistance in the case. Officials have stated that this was an isolated incident, and there is no ongoing threat to the public in the Wadesboro area.
Both the Kinston and Wadesboro incidents highlight recent law enforcement activities and underscore the importance of vigilant police work and community reporting in maintaining safety and order across the state.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the former employee accused in the Kinston Little Caesars incident?
The former employee accused in the Kinston Little Caesars incident is Jonathon Hackett, 41.
What are the main allegations against Jonathon Hackett?
Jonathon Hackett is accused of unlawfully entering the Kinston Little Caesars restaurant twice last weekend, making and selling pizzas, keeping the proceeds, and engaging in a physical altercation with employees during the second attempted break-in.
What charges does Jonathon Hackett face?
Jonathon Hackett faces charges including Felony breaking and/or entering, Felony obtaining property by false pretenses, Felony larceny after breaking and entering, and Misdemeanor breaking and entering.
Where did the bank robbery in North Carolina occur recently?
The recent bank robbery in North Carolina occurred at a State Employees Credit Union in Wadesboro.
How much money was taken in the Wadesboro bank robbery?
Approximately $5,500 was taken in the Wadesboro bank robbery.
Who apprehended the suspect in the Wadesboro bank robbery?
The Wadesboro police chief apprehended the suspect in the Wadesboro bank robbery.
Key Details of Recent North Carolina Incidents
| Incident | Location (State-level) | Individual(s) Involved | Key Allegation(s) / Event | Outcome / Status | Scope |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Little Caesars Break-ins and Unauthorized Sales | Kinston, North Carolina | Jonathon Hackett, 41 | Alleged unlawful entry twice, making and selling pizzas, pocketing profits, physical altercation with employees. | Arrested, facing multiple felony charges, held at Lenoir County Jail. | State-level |
| Bank Robbery | Wadesboro, North Carolina | Unnamed male suspect | Alleged demand and theft of $5,500 from State Employees Credit Union. | Apprehended by Wadesboro police chief, investigation involves NC SBI and FBI. | State-level |
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