SMITHFIELD, NC — A Selma man is facing felony charges after authorities allege he stole over $150,000 from a Smithfield business where he previously worked.
Saul Antonio Acosta-Garcia, 36, of W. Waddell Street, has been charged with multiple felonies related to the theft of $152,203 from Eddie Jones Paint & Pressure Washing. The alleged embezzlement occurred between January 30, 2023, and June 9, 2025, according to the Johnston County Sheriff’s Office.
Investigators say Acosta-Garcia fraudulently obtained company checks, made them payable to himself, and cashed them over time. The business reported the suspected theft on June 10, 2025, launching a criminal investigation.
Acosta-Garcia was taken into custody on July 28 and charged with one felony count of obtaining property by false pretense and three felony counts of uttering a forged instrument. He was released the next day from the Johnston County Detention Center after a bail bondsman posted his $150,000 secured bond.
Court documents show Acosta-Garcia requested a court-appointed attorney, stating he is self-employed, supports four dependents, and earns approximately $2,000 monthly.
His first court appearance has not yet been scheduled.
