Felon charged in death of missing Wilson woman

Parks, a felon, was arrested Wednesday and charged with one count of first-degree murder and one count of first-degree kidnapping. He is currently being held without bond at the Wilson County Jail.

Police have not yet located Palacios’ body.

“We are continuing to search for this young lady,” said Captain Kendra Howell.

Parks was previously convicted by a Wilson County jury in 2013 on two counts of participating in the prostitution of a minor. He was released from prison 27 years early after the North Carolina Court of Appeals overturned the convictions, citing lack of evidence.

He has several other previous convictions including manslaughter and attempted first-degree and second-degree rape.

Palacios was las seen by friends at Parks’ home at 4710 Ward Boulevard on July 31, according to police. Anyone with information about her whereabouts should call Wilson Crime Stoppers at 252-243-2255.

According to Captain Eric Smith, police are investigating other cases that might be tied to alleged criminal activity at Park’s home.

Police Chief Thomas Hopkins released a statement early Thursday thanking community members for their help during the investigation.

"We intend to use all appropriate means in continuing this investigation. I want to encourage anyone with any information relating to this case or similar cases," he said.