Two allegedly impaired men were arrested after they reportedly assaulted deputies trying to assist them in separate incidents.
Deputies were called to Mary White Road near Whiteville at 10 p.m. Saturday, according to the report. Richard Long, 47, was a guest at a party and had become intoxicated, the report said. Deputies were called because he was “causing a disturbance,” the report said.
Long had sustained a minor laceration, the report said, and refused medical assistance from EMS. When relatives arrived to take him home, the report said, Long refused to leave.
As deputies placed him under arrest, the report said, Long became combative and kicked a deputy.
Long gave his address as 2240 Dock Rd., Whiteville. He was held under $5,000 secured bond, charged with assault on an official.
In an unrelated case, deputies were called to the Marathon station at 1105 J.K. Powell Boulevard in Whiteville around 3:30 a.m. today (July 13).
Preston Ray Melton, 45, reportedly asked for medical assistance. While EMS personnel were evaluating him, Melton allegedly became aggressive toward deputies and the medical crew.
Deputies tried to de-escalate the situation, the report said, and attempted to help Melton into a waiting ambulance. Melton allegedly began fighting and kicked a deputy’s body camera. He was taken into custody after a brief struggle.
He continued threatening EMS personnel even after taken before a magistrate, and was transported to Columbus Regional for treatment of minor injuries before being jailed.
Melton was charged with resisting, communicating threats, and intoxicated/disruptive behavior. His bond was set at $1,000. Melton’s address was listed on court documents as 607 Slipper Log Rd., Whiteville.
Copyright 2026 Columbuscountynews.com. All Rights Reserved.
