Federal authorities are offering a reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of several individuals who committed a string of violent armed robberies in the eastern part of the state, including Wilson County. 

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives said it believes the same perpetrators are involved in robberies reported in Wilson, Greene, Pitt, Beaufort, Washington, Craven and Hertford counties since Dec. 6. 

Each robbery involved one to three men fitting similar descriptions and using similar vehicles and guns, according to an ATF press release. 

The robbers have targeted Dollar General, Food Lion and Family Dollar stores. Other holdups happened at Pizza Hut, Walgreens, CVS and One Main Financial, federal authorities said. Perpetrators brandished guns in nearly every case.

“In cases involving violent crime, ATF frequently partners with local law enforcement agencies to share resources and personnel to strengthen investigations,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Vince Pallozzi. “These particular individuals are a serious threat to numerous communities, and it is imperative that we end this dangerous crime spree and bring them to justice.”

The ATF released surveillance images of the unidentified perpetrators. 

WILSON CASES

Three men robbed the Ward Boulevard Family Dollar store at gunpoint and assaulted an employee on Jan. 28. Wilson police responded to the store at 8:35 p.m. 

Two female employees told police that the men entered the store with guns and demanded money. Robbers assaulted one of the workers, who sustained minor injuries and was taken to the hospital. Police said the men stole an unknown amount of cash before leaving the store. 

Less than a week later, the robbers struck again on Feb. 2 at the CVS on Forest Hills Road. Police responded to the store at 8:55 p.m. 

Employees and customers told police that three men entered the store and demanded money. No one was injured during that holdup, but police say the robbers fled with an unknown amount of cash. 

Anyone with information about these robberies or the individuals involved can call the ATF at 1-800-ATF-TIPS (800-283-8477). Tips can also be submitted through email at ATFTips@atf.gov or through the ReportIt app. All calls and tips will remain confidential.