On Saturday, May 26, a woman in Bertie County, NC demonstrated bravery and quick thinking when she was kidnapped at knifepoint. Deputies from the Bertie County Sheriff’s Office responded to a call from a third party about the woman being forcibly taken from her home by a man with a knife in the Pine Street area of Lewiston.
Thanks to the victim’s bravery and use of TEXT-911 technology, she was able to provide crucial information that helped in her quick and safe rescue. The victim sent text messages confirming her situation, which allowed authorities to locate her and respond promptly. When deputies arrived at the scene, they discovered that the suspect had locked himself and the victim in a bedroom of the home, holding her at knifepoint.
The deputies were able to breach the door and arrest the suspect, Tomya Lee Shields, 46 of Lewiston. Shields was charged with second degree kidnapping, communicating threats, assault on a female, and false imprisonment. Fortunately, the woman was unharmed during the incident.
This incident underscores the importance of quick thinking and utilizing available resources in dangerous situations. The victim’s actions and prompt response from law enforcement led to a successful resolution of the kidnapping. The Bertie County Sheriff’s Office commended the victim for her bravery and cooperation during