Former Leland Police Officer makes NC court appearance

BOLIVIA, NC (WWAY) — A former Leland police Officer made his first appearance in North Carolina court this morning in Bolivia.

Howard Henry “Hank” Smith appeared for several misdemeanor charges today. According to the District Attorney’s Office he will appear for felony charges next week.

Smith was arrested after leading a multi-state, high speed police chase last year.

Smith was charged with the two counts in Horry County after police said he fired at officers on S.C. 31 during the chase. He has been extradited from South Carolina where he has been sentenced to serve 20 years.

According to the DA’s Office they will have 120 days to settle his North Carolina charges before Smith must return to South Carolina.