👉 The State ASKED for $5,000,000 👉 The Court GAVE him $150,000 👉 He walked out 👉 He is NOW living freely in the community We, the residents of Harnett County and concerned citizens across North Carolina, demand immediate action and oversight regarding the release of Steven Alan Vest, a registered sex offender now facing more than fifty indictments involving sexual offenses against minors. During his most recent court appearance, the State of North Carolina formally requested a $5,000,000 bond due to the severity of the charges, the number of victims, the ongoing risk to minors, and his extensive criminal history. Despite this, the court set his bond at only $150,000 — allowing Mr. Vest to post bond and walk out of custody. He is now back in the community, living freely despite the overwhelming evidence and danger he poses to children. This is not just a lapse in judgment. This is a catastrophic failure of the justice system. Parents were not warned. Neighbors were not notified. Families were not protected. Our children deserve better.