Armed Robbery Investigation and Arrests – Red Roof Inn
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 E. Broad Street.
Upon arrival, officers learned that the victim had been robbed at gunpoint of money and other personal items. The suspects fled into the wooded area behind the business. With the assistance of SPD K-9 units, officers were able to track and apprehend one suspect, identified as Steven Michael Potts, 19, of Kammerer Drive in Statesville. A second suspect, a juvenile, was located and taken into custody a short time later near the intersection of E. Broad Street and Safriet Road.
During the investigation, officers determined that the suspects had arranged to meet the victim through Snapchat for a narcotics-related transaction. Upon the victim’s arrival at the agreed location, the suspects committed the robbery.
A search warrant was executed on the suspects’ hotel room and vehicle, leading to the discovery of a firearm, cash, and additional evidence connected to the robbery.
Steven Michael 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 faces the same charges and was transported to the Alexander County Juvenile Detention Center under a secure custody order.
Additional charges may be forthcoming as the investigation continues.