KINGS MOUNTAIN, N.C. — A Kings Mountain woman is facing charges after police launched a sex assault investigation late last week.
The Kings Mountain Police Department said the investigation started on July 28 when officers received a report about a sexual assault on a minor. Investigators said they interviewed the victim and eventually served warrants against 35-year-old Amanda Buchanan Justice.
Justice turned herself in on Thursday, August 3. She is now charged with two counts of felony statutory sex offense with a child under the age of 15 years old.
The investigation remains ongoing. KMPD asks anyone with further details to call (704) 734-0444. Anonymous tips can also be shared with Cleveland County CrimeStoppers online.
New Life Family Worship Center, a church in Kings Mountain, said in a statement posted on Facebook that Justice was a member but no longer attends the church. The church also said the alleged crime did not happen on church grounds nor did it involve any ministry activities.
The church's website says it is part of Foursquare Southeast, part of the Foursquare denomination.
Note: WCNC instituted a policy in March 2021 regarding the broadcast or posting of mugshots.
WCNC will only air or post a mugshot if the person has been formally charged with a crime and in a few other cases. The exceptions include: If it appears the person could be a danger to themselves or others or if they are wanted by authorities; to differentiate between people with a common name; if the photos could encourage more victims to come forward. The news-editorial leadership may also decide to use a mugshot based on the severity of the crime(s) committed and/or the level of public interest in the crime and ensuing criminal proceedings.
WCNC Charlotte is choosing to show the mugshot of the suspect in this case as police have requested further information from anyone who can provide it.