Authorities in Onslow County, North Carolina, have arrested a Camp Lejeune Marine on multiple child sex crime charges following an investigation that began in September. Deputies with the Onslow County Sheriff’s Office say the case was initiated after the Onslow County Department of Social Services reported an alleged incident of child sexual abuse.
During the investigation, law enforcement conducted an interview with the child victim, leading detectives to identify 22-year-old Zayne Melton as the primary suspect. Working alongside the Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS), deputies interviewed Melton last Friday. Following the interview and additional evidence gathering, authorities obtained arrest warrants for Melton on Wednesday and took him into custody.
Melton has been formally charged with several serious offenses, including statutory rape of a child under the age of 15, felony statutory sex offense with a child under 15, and felony indecent liberties with a child. These charges carry significant legal consequences under North Carolina law due to the severity of the alleged crimes.
Melton is currently being held in the Onslow County Jail under a secured bond set at $800,000. Authorities continue to investigate the case, reviewing additional evidence and conducting further inquiries to determine if any other incidents or victims are involved.
The Onslow County Sheriff’s Office has emphasized that the investigation remains active and ongoing. They encourage anyone with relevant information to come forward and assist in the case. Law enforcement officials and child protective services continue to work together to ensure the safety and well-being of all children in the community.
As the legal process unfolds, authorities will continue to gather and analyze evidence. Further developments in the case will be made available as the investigation progresses.
