Ex-Trainee Charged with Assault on Disabled Person

Lillian Sykes, a former trainee with the Winston-Salem Police Department, has been arrested and charged with misdemeanor assault and false imprisonment of a disabled person in Davidson County. The incident occurred on December 7, 2024, at a nursing home where Sykes allegedly restrained and handcuffed Donald Alan Scarborough, causing him injuries. The Winston-Salem Police Department was informed of the allegations in early December and placed Sykes on administrative leave during their internal investigation. Sykes, who was hired on November 25, 2024, was in the classroom training phase when the incident happened and has since been terminated from her position. The department emphasized their commitment to justice and integrity, stating that Sykes' actions do not reflect the values upheld by the majority of their officers. Her arrest was announced on February 17, 2025, but she is no longer listed in the county's inmate records.