CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Multiple people are facing charges in connection with a gun store robbery on South Boulevard in southwest Charlotte last week, police said.
The suspects broke into Carolina Sporting Arms around 4 a.m. on Feb. 20, according to Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police. The store reported that 20 guns were stolen during the incident. Surveillance video showed that the suspects used a stolen Hyundai to break through a gate on the front door during the robbery, police said.
A CMPD officer spotted the vehicle later that morning and attempted to stop the driver. The suspect allegedly refused to stop and a brief pursuit ensued. The chase ended when four people jumped and ran from the vehicle, according to CMPD. All four of those people were taken into custody and initially charged with possession of a stolen vehicle.
CMPD was able to determine that more suspects were involved with the robbery; three people were arrested in Cabarrus County when Concord officers found eight guns that were stolen during the original incident.
Five suspects are now are facing charges for their alleged involvement in the robbery. Of those facing charges, four are 18. Two teens, both 15, that were in the vehicle during the pursuit were not listed among those ultimately charged in the robbery investigation.
- Reginald Moses: Possession of a stolen firearm, larceny of a firearm, breaking and entering, conspiracy to commit breaking and entering and larceny of a motor vehicle.
- Cori Meadows: Possession of a stolen firearm, possession of marijuana.
- Devonta Merriman: Possession of a stolen firearm, possession of marijuana.
- Alaja McKinney: Possession of a stolen vehicle.
- A 17-year-old juvenile suspect was also charged with larceny of a firearm as well as breaking and entering. WCNC Charlotte is not identifying the juvenile due to their age.
Note: WCNC instituted a policy in March 2021 regarding the broadcast or posting of mugshots.
WCNC will only air or post a mugshot if the person has been formally charged with a crime and in a few other cases. The exceptions include: If it appears the person could be a danger to themselves or others or if they are wanted by authorities; to differentiate between people with a common name; if the photos could encourage more victims to come forward. The news-editorial leadership may also decide to use a mugshot based on the severity of the crime(s) committed and/or the level of public interest in the crime and ensuing criminal proceedings.