Local Man Arrested for Weapons and Resisting Charges during Checking Station

On March 29, 2024 at approximately 10:15pm, Officers with the Morganton Department of Public Safety were conducting a motor vehicle checking station on Kirksey Drive when a Cadillac passenger vehicle approached the checking station. The driver was instructed to provide his license and registration. The driver then refused and rolled up his window. Officers continued to give commands for the driver to identify himself; however, he continued to refuse. The driver then informed officers that we was armed with two pistols in the vehicle. The male stated he possessed a concealed handgun permit; however, refused to provide it or any identification. Officers then informed the driver that he was under arrest and to exit the vehicle. The male refused. After several minutes of de-escalation attempts, officers were forced to open the window of the vehicle and place the driver under arrest without any further incident. A license was located on the driver and he was identified as Juan Megal Johnson, 51, of Morganton. Johnson was transported to the Burke County Magistrate's Office where he was charged with the following:

- Resist, Delay, Obstruct Public Officer
- Concealed Handgun Permit Violation (Refuse to Provide Permit)

Johnson received a $500 secured bond and a first court appearance of August 12, 2024.