WILMINGTON, N.C. – In a brutal attack on the small town of Winton, Trevon Montez Freeman, 21, from Hertford County, was today sentenced to 90 months in prison for interference with commerce by robbery and brandishing a firearm during the heist. Freeman’s guilty plea on February 11, 2025, marked the culmination of a relentless pursuit by law enforcement.
“Commercial armed robbery not only endangers the lives of victims and bystanders but tears at the fabric of our communities,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Bubar. “This result reflects our commitment to holding violent offenders accountable and providing some justice to the victim in this case.”
The attack occurred on November 26, 2023, when Hertford County Sheriff’s Deputies were called to Winton Deli on S. Main Street. The clerk, visibly shaken, reported a masked robber had pointed a tan handgun at her and her nephew during the closing of the store. More than $250 was stolen before the thief fled in a speeding car.
Hertford County Sheriff Dexter Hayes hailed the teamwork that led to Freeman’s capture. “The professionalism, dedication, and commitment shown by our team reflect our ongoing mission to protect citizens and businesses,” said Hayes. “We remain steadfast in our pledge that anyone who chooses to commit a crime in our county will be held accountable.”
Surveillance video and voice recognition led deputies to Freeman’s car, where they found stolen money and the telltale ski mask. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jake D. Pugh and Phil Aubart prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the Hertford County Sheriff’s Office and Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Chief U.S. District Judge Richard E. Myers II presided over the sentencing, following which Freeman faced a lengthy prison term. For those who seek to threaten the safety of Winton’s community, this sentence serves as a stark reminder of the consequences they face.
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Key Facts
- State: North Carolina
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Violent Crime|Public Corruption|Weapons
- Source: Official Source ↗
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