Sanka Delayne Perry, a 43-year-old African American woman, was found with unknown injuries on February 4, 2021, in Greensboro, North Carolina. The Greensboro Police Department responded to a "911 unknown call" at around midnight, discovering Perry in the 300 block of Avalon Road. She was transported to a local hospital, where she later succumbed to her injuries.
The nature of her injuries and the exact cause of death were not immediately clear, prompting an ongoing investigation by the authorities.
In the days following Perry's death, the Greensboro Police Department's Violent Criminal Apprehension Team arrested Noland Lloyd Coles III, a 32-year-old man from Greensboro. Coles was charged with first-degree murder, possession of a firearm by a felon, felony breaking and entering, and first-degree kidnapping. He was taken into custody without bail and held in the Guilford County Jail. The arrest was made after police linked Coles to the crime scene and the circumstances surrounding Perry's death.
The investigation into Perry's death revealed that she had been a victim of a violent crime. Coles, who had a prior criminal record, was believed to have targeted Perry for reasons that were not immediately disclosed by the authorities. The case drew significant attention from the local community, with many residents expressing shock and concern over the tragic incident. The Greensboro Police Department continued to gather evidence and testimonies to build a strong case against Coles, ensuring that justice would be served for Perry and her family.
As the legal proceedings unfolded, Coles faced multiple charges related to the incident. The first-degree murder charge carried the possibility of a life sentence without parole, reflecting the severity of the crime. The possession of a firearm by a felon charge highlighted Coles' previous criminal history, which played a crucial role in the prosecution's case. The felony breaking and entering and first-degree kidnapping charges further underscored the violent nature of the crime and the premeditated actions taken by Coles.
Throughout the investigation and subsequent legal proceedings, the Greensboro Police Department remained committed to providing updates to the public and seeking any additional information that could aid in the case. The community's support and cooperation were vital in ensuring that justice was served for Sanka Delayne Perry, a 43-year-old African American woman whose life was tragically cut short. The case served as a stark reminder of the importance of addressing violent crime and supporting victims and their families in their pursuit of justice.
