Two Taken Into Custody for Whiteville Home Armed Robbery

I still remember the first time I heard about the robbery on Rouse Lane near Whiteville—it sent a chill down my spine. Two people from East Arcadia, Cierra Myree Young and Robert Terrell Lacewell, allegedly broke into a man’s home late at night on October 28, and though the victim wasn’t physically hurt, the sense of violation was immediate.

What strikes me most is how quickly the incident unfolded. One suspect reportedly entered the house and took a wallet, while the other brandished a handgun at the back door. The two then fled in a white sedan, leaving behind some of their loot, but not without sparking a swift investigation.

As someone who’s spent years covering local crime, I know it’s easy to reduce stories like this to names, dates, and charges. But when you imagine yourself—or someone you care about—in the victim’s place, it hits differently. This isn’t just news; it’s a reminder that safety in your own home is never something you can take for granted.

By the end of this article, I want you to understand not only what happened on Rouse Lane, but also what it means for you as a resident and how you can take practical steps to protect yourself.

How the Robbery Happened?

Reading the Columbus County News report, I could immediately picture the tension on Rouse Lane that night. Just after 11:30 p.m. on October 28, deputies were called to the home of Marshall Rouse near Whiteville after he reported an armed robbery.

According to the reports, Cierra Myree Young entered the house and took his wallet, which contained cash, credit cards, and identification, while Robert Terrell Lacewell stood at the back door, brandishing a handgun. It was the kind of situation that could spiral out of control in seconds.

What strikes me is how organized yet reckless the pair seemed. They fled in a white four-door sedan, but in their rush, they left some of the loot behind. The victim wasn’t physically harmed, which is fortunate, but the violation of having strangers invade your home is profound.

Moments like these remind me that crime isn’t just about theft—it’s about fear, vulnerability, and the shaken sense of safety that can linger for weeks or months afterward.

Loot Recovered and Loss Details

The deputies’ search after the robbery revealed part of what the suspects took. Rouse’s wallet was recovered, but $2,300 in cash was missing along with his driver’s license and debit card.

That detail hit me harder than the act itself. Losing cash is frustrating, but having your personal identification and financial information exposed adds a layer of anxiety that many people underestimate.

I often think about how quickly someone’s life can feel upended. Imagine having to cancel cards, monitor accounts for fraud, and rebuild your sense of security—all because someone decided to break into your home for a few minutes of gain.

It’s a harsh reminder of how quickly life can pivot when the safety of your home is compromised.

Arrests and Legal Charges

The arrests followed swiftly. Young was taken into custody on October 29, and Lacewell was captured the next day. Both face charges for robbery with a dangerous weapon, while Young also carries an additional charge for absconding from North Carolina probation and parole.

Their addresses—Young at 416 Mooretown Road, Lacewell on Lacewell Street, both in East Arcadia—make it clear that these were not random outsiders but neighbors within the wider community.

From a human perspective, it’s one thing to read about names and charges, but another to realize that these individuals are people you might pass on the street, in a store, or even at a local gathering.

It’s a stark reminder that crime can hit close to home and why knowing your community—and who is around you—matters more than most people realize.

Community Impact & Safety Awareness

Crimes like this ripple far beyond the immediate victim. I’ve seen this countless times: neighbors lock doors earlier, double-check windows, and suddenly everyone in the area becomes hyper-aware of potential threats. On Rouse Lane, I can imagine the sense of unease lingering in homes long after the deputies left.

Safety is not just about locks or alarms—it’s about being proactive, staying aware, and fostering a culture of vigilance. Simple steps like security cameras, motion-detecting lights, or even a neighborhood watch program can prevent opportunistic crimes.

As someone who has reported on these cases for years, I can tell you that residents often underestimate the importance of small, preventative measures until it’s too late.

For quick updates and tips shared directly by other residents and security enthusiasts, you can also join a dedicated WhatsApp group where local safety concerns and alerts are discussed in real time.

Law Enforcement Actions

The swift actions of deputies highlight how effective prompt policing can be. Within two days, both suspects were arrested, and a significant portion of the stolen property was recovered. Their approach—immediate search, following leads, and coordinating arrest—likely prevented further incidents that could have escalated.

Still, while it’s reassuring to see law enforcement respond decisively, there’s a lesson here for every homeowner. You can’t rely solely on the authorities to protect your home. Being prepared, staying vigilant, and knowing how to react in a threatening situation are equally essential.

For me, this is what turns a news story into a teachable moment: it’s not just about what happened—it’s about what we can all do to reduce risk in our own lives.

Incidents like this aren’t unique to Whiteville; similar situations have occurred elsewhere, such as when a South Dakota homeowner held a burglary suspect at gunpoint until police arrived.

Legal Process & What Comes Next

When I think about cases like this, one question always comes to mind: “What happens now?” After the arrests of Young and Lacewell, the legal process kicks in, and understanding it can help anyone feel a little more in control.

Both will go through the North Carolina court system—first with arraignments, then hearings where the prosecution presents the evidence.

Robbery with a dangerous weapon is taken very seriously in NC, and penalties can include years of imprisonment, fines, and probation.

For the victim, this process can be slow and emotionally taxing. Court dates, testimonies, and waiting for decisions can stretch over months, but it’s all part of ensuring justice is done. As I’ve seen in similar cases, following the process closely, staying informed, and even consulting legal advice can give residents a better sense of closure and understanding.

Legal outcomes can vary widely depending on the case; for instance, a Connecticut man was arrested after allegedly trying to choke a homeowner during a break-in.

Broader Context: Home Robberies in Whiteville and North Carolina

It’s natural to wonder whether incidents like this are isolated or part of a bigger pattern. I looked at recent North Carolina crime reports, and while Columbus County isn’t considered a high-crime area, home robberies—especially armed ones—do happen sporadically.

Statistics show that most burglaries occur in smaller towns where homes may be more isolated or security measures less robust.

For residents, this context is a wake-up call. It’s easy to feel safe in a quiet neighborhood, but these statistics remind us that preparation is key.

Understanding local crime patterns, knowing your neighbors, and investing in preventive measures—like cameras, strong locks, and good lighting—can dramatically reduce your risk. It’s not about paranoia; it’s about being smart and informed.

High-profile cases, like the burglary at NBA star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s home, highlight how home security remains a challenge even for those with the best protections (full details here).

Key Takeaways for Whiteville Residents

If there’s one thing I want you to take away from this, it’s that safety starts with awareness. Here’s what I’ve learned from reporting on cases like this:

• Be vigilant: Take note of unusual activity around your home and report it immediately.
• Secure your property: Locks, alarms, and cameras aren’t just for show—they’re deterrents.
• Know your neighbors: A watchful community is one of the best protections you can have.
• Have a plan: Know how to react if someone threatens you in your home. Safety is both mental and practical.

I share this because I want you to walk away not just informed, but empowered. Being proactive can prevent an experience like Rouse Lane from ever happening to you.

Final Thoughts

Stories like the Whiteville home robbery hit close to home—literally and figuratively. They remind us that crime isn’t abstract; it can touch anyone, anytime, and it changes how we see our neighborhoods. But there’s also hope: the swift response from law enforcement, recovery of stolen items, and ongoing community vigilance show that coordinated action matters.

As someone who’s reported on many incidents like this, I often ask myself and my readers: “If it happened here, would I be ready?” That’s the question I want you to consider. Talk to your neighbors, review your home security, and think about what steps you can take today to protect yourself and your loved ones.

I’d love to hear from you—what measures have you taken to make your home safer, and what advice would you give neighbors in Whiteville or similar communities? Share your thoughts, because discussion and awareness are part of what keeps a community strong.

If you want to stay updated on home security incidents and learn practical tips, visit our Home Security section for more real-life stories and expert guidance.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Details are based on publicly available reports and sources. Readers should consult official authorities or legal professionals for specific guidance.