Story perspectives

Ex-Employee Arrested for Pizza Heist at Little Caesars

2/4/2026

Summary

Story summary

Jonathan Hackett, a former Little Caesars employee, faces felony charges after breaking into the Kinston, North Carolina restaurant twice.
On February 1, he made and sold ten pizzas for $50 before a second break-in led to an altercation with employees.
Hackett was treated at UNC Lenoir Health Care and arrested on a $50,000 bond.
He's charged with breaking and entering, obtaining property by false pretenses, and larceny.

History

Historical Context

The COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 severely impacted the restaurant industry, prompting many establishments, including Little Caesars, to enhance security measures amid rising thefts. The National Restaurant Association reported a 20% increase in theft incidents, reflecting the economic strain on food businesses. Jonathan Hackett's break-ins in Kinston, North Carolina, exemplify the ongoing challenges faced by restaurants in maintaining safety and profitability during this crisis.

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Story summary

Jonathan Hackett, a former Little Caesars employee, faces felony charges after breaking into the Kinston, North Carolina restaurant twice.
On February 1, he made and sold ten pizzas for $50 before a second break-in led to an altercation with employees.
Hackett was treated at UNC Lenoir Health Care and arrested on a $50,000 bond.
He's charged with breaking and entering, obtaining property by false pretenses, and larceny.

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