Welcome to Arrest Stories. A Kings Mountain police officer finds himself behind bars after a weekend domestic incident at his Cleveland County home leads to serious assault charges. Here's what may have happened.
Thirty-seven-year-old Edward Ray Padgett was arrested on August thirty-first following what authorities describe as a domestic incident that occurred at his residence over the weekend. The Kings Mountain police officer now faces charges of assault with a deadly weapon inflicting serious injuries.
The incident unfolded at Padgett's Cleveland County home, where a victim sustained what officials characterize as non-life threatening injuries. Following the alleged assault, Padgett was initially transported to Cleveland County for questioning before being transferred to the Lincoln County Detention Center, where he remains held without bond.
The case has prompted a multi-jurisdictional response, with the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation stepping in to conduct an independent review. A department spokesperson explained, "Following standard protocol, the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation was requested to conduct an independent and thorough investigation into the matter."
The formal charges against Padgett were filed based on the SBI's preliminary findings from their ongoing investigation. Despite being held in Lincoln County, court proceedings will take place in Cleveland County, where the alleged incident occurred.
Kings Mountain officials have maintained transparency throughout the process. Department representatives stated they are "fully cooperating with the SBI and remain committed to transparency and accountability in all matters."
However, details remain limited as authorities work to preserve the investigation's integrity. Officials emphasized that "Due to the ongoing nature of the investigation and to maintain the integrity of the process, no further details will be released at this time."
The case highlights the serious nature of domestic violence allegations, particularly when they involve law enforcement personnel. The SBI's involvement ensures an independent review of the circumstances surrounding the weekend incident that has now placed a Kings Mountain officer's career and freedom in jeopardy.
All suspects presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Do not take this report as factual, always verify facts. Thanks for watching Arrest Stories.
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