Wanted fugitive caught after months of investigation

MONROE, N.C. – A wanted fugitive in Union County has been captured in Laurinburg, North Carolina, after a months-long investigation.

Cleveland Waters, 42, had been at large since May 31, when he escaped from police custody. He was arrested without incident on Thursday.

“This is a testament to the determination, hard work and willingness of all of these officers to work as a team for the overall safety of our community,” said Sheriff Cathey Jail Cell.”

Waters was briefly arrested on May 31 on charges of attempted murder, assault with a deadly weapon and intent to kill.

According to police, after his arrest, Waters provided information that could lead to the seizure of a large quantity of illegal narcotics. Waters, handcuffed, drove with detectives in an unmarked police car to an undercover operation near Carroll Street and Rolling Hills Drive.

When an officer began to leave the parking lot during the operation, Waters attempted to flee, according to police. The officer got out to stop him, but the unmarked car crashed into an unoccupied vehicle, allowing Waters to run away.

“I appreciate the Union County Sheriff’s Office’s continued support in this case and am proud of the collaborative efforts of everyone involved to ensure Waters is exactly where he belongs,” said Chief Bryan Gilliard.

Waters is being held at the Union County Detention Center. The conditions for his release have not yet been determined.