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Woman accused of defrauding ENC newspaper by claiming commission on fake ad sales

PRE News & Ideas | By Annette Weston
Published April 27, 2026 at 7:00 AM EDT

A Winterville woman is accused of a major fraud scheme involving a local newspaper.

Washington police have arrested Kristen Terry on charges that include embezzlement and larceny. Terry was an employee of Boone Newsmedia, the company that operates the Washington Daily News. Investigators say the fraud dates back to 2024.

Warrants allege Terry reported fake advertising sales for at least two businesses that didn't actually exist. By creating these fictitious deals, she was able to pocket thousands in unearned commissions.

Terry was released after posting a $40,000 bond.
Annette Weston
Annette is originally a Midwest gal, born and raised in Michigan, but with career stops in many surrounding states, the Pacific Northwest, and various parts of the southeast. An award-winning journalist and mother of four, Annette moved to eastern North Carolina in 2019 to be closer to family – in particular, her two young grandchildren. It’s possible that a -27 day with a -68 windchill in Minnesota may have also played a role in that decision. In her spare time, Annette does a lot of kiddo cuddling, reading, and producing the coolest Halloween costumes anyone has ever seen. She has also worked as a diversity and inclusion facilitator serving school districts and large corporations. It’s the people that make this beautiful area special, and she wants to share those stories that touch the hearts of others. If you have a story idea to share, please reach out by email to westona@cravencc.edu.
See stories by Annette Weston