Statesville, NC – On May 14, 2025, at approximately 5:00 p.m., the Statesville Police Department responded to a report of an armed robbery at the Red Roof Inn located at 1508 East Broad Street.
Upon arrival, officers were informed that the victim had been robbed at gunpoint and had personal items and money taken. The suspects reportedly fled into the wooded area behind the business. With assistance from SPD K-9 units, officers tracked and apprehended one suspect, identified as 19-year-old Steven Michael Potts of Kammerer Drive in Statesville. A second suspect, a juvenile, was taken into custody shortly afterward near the intersection of East Broad Street and Safriet Road.
According to investigators, the suspects had arranged a meeting with the victim through Snapchat for a narcotics-related transaction. When the victim arrived at the agreed location, the suspects carried out the robbery.
A search warrant was later executed on the suspects’ hotel room and vehicle, resulting in the discovery of a firearm, cash, and other evidence believed to be linked to the incident.
Potts has been charged with armed robbery, second degree kidnapping, and conspiracy to commit robbery. He was transported to the Iredell County Detention Center and is being held without bond, pending a first court appearance.
The juvenile suspect is facing the same charges and was transported to the Alexander County Juvenile Detention Center under a secure custody order.
The investigation remains ongoing, and additional charges may be filed.
