Alleged sexual predator sought

Published 11:10 am Wednesday, October 27, 2010

LEWISTON-WOODVILLE – A 19-year-old Rich Square man is sought for alleged sexual crimes against a 13-year-old female here.

Lewiston-Woodville Police Chief B. Winston Panton has drawn warrants for the arrest of Robert Lee Cofield of 417 Drew Ave. in Rich Square. Those warrants charge Cofield with seven felony counts of statutory rape.

Robert Lee Cofield, 19, of Rich Square is sought on seven arrest warrants drawn by the Lewiston-Woodville Police Department.

“We need to get this man off the street; he is a predator to young girls,” Chief Panton said.

The alleged sexual offenses occurred between Aug. 15 and Sept. 20, according to information Panton said was provided by the victim. At the time of the offenses, the defendant was at least six years older the victim and was not lawfully married to the victim.

Panton, who is heading the investigation, is asking for the public’s assistance in finding Cofield. Those with information can contact Panton at 252-348-2499 or the Bertie County Sheriff’s Office at 252-794-5330.

Chief Panton added that those in Rich Square/Northampton County area that may know of Cofield’s whereabouts can contact the Rich Square Police Department (539-2315) or the Northampton County Sheriff’s Office (534-2611).

About Cal Bryant

Cal Bryant, a 40-year veteran of the newspaper industry, serves as the Editor at Roanoke-Chowan Publications, publishers of the Roanoke-Chowan News-Herald, Gates County Index, and Front Porch Living magazine.

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