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Category Posts : Crime

Crime Report

Inmate Charged in Violent Attack on Prison Employee
  • 08/18/2018
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RALEIGH – A Wake County Grand Jury has returned indictments charging inmate Jaquan Lane (#1449047) in connection with the violent attack on Central Prison employee Brent Soucier. Lane, 23, is charged with Assault on a State Detention Employee Inflicting Serious Bodily Injury, and Assault with a Deadly Weapon Inflicting Serious Bodily Injury. Soucier, a unit manager, was assaulted at the facility on June 19. State Capitol Police and the State Bureau of Investigation conducted an extensive investigation that was reviewed by the Wake County District Attorney’s Office.  According to investigators, information and evidence available indicated that inmate Lane assaulted Soucier using hands and fists in a vicious and malicious surprise attack.  Soucier …..

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U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations Eye Raleigh for Document and Benefit Fraud Task Force

RALEIGH – Robert J. Higdon, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, announced today that his Office is “proud to partner with Homeland Security Investigations and other top-tier law enforcement agencies to pursue benefit fraud investigations and prosecutions. Immigration fraud is a significant national problem, and we need to address it with all available resources.” Established in April 2006, these task forces, known as DBFTFs focus their efforts on detecting, deterring and disrupting both benefit fraud and document fraud. Investigators from a variety of agencies with expertise in different aspects of document and benefit fraud collaborate with U.S. Attorney’s Offices around the country to formulate a …..

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Bladen County Commissioner enters plea in Brunswick DWI case

By Erin Smith Update: Bladen County Commissioner Ashley S. Trivette entered an Alford plea in Brunswick County Superior Court on Friday afternoon. According to US Legal,  in an Alford Plea, the criminal defendant does not admit the act, but admits that the prosecution could likely prove the charge. The court will pronounce the defendant guilty. An Alford plea allows defendant to plead guilty even while unable or unwilling to admit guilt. Superior Court Judge John Nobles sentenced Trivette based on the plea bargain. According the defendant’s attorney, Bill Powers, Trivette plead guilty to the DWI charge and the misdemeanor Child Abuse charge was dismissed. She received 120 suspended and 12 months of …..

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Whiteville man sentenced for drug offense

NEW BERN – The United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, Robert J. Higdon, Jr., announced that today, Leroy Moore, Jr., 31, of Whiteville, North Carolina, was sentenced by United States District Judge Louise W. Flanagan to 60 months imprisonment followed by 5 years of supervised release. Moore was named in a two-count Superseding Indictment on November 29, 2017. On January 24, 2018, Moore pled guilty to Possession with Intent to Distribute 28 Grams or More of Cocaine Base (Crack). On July 1, 2014, deputies with the Columbus County Sheriff’s Office conducted a license check point at an intersection in Whiteville. A Deputy made contact with a …..

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Columbus County Sheriff’s Office makes Narcotics arrest in Hallsboro

Hallsboro, NC – Columbus County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) Vice-Narcotics Unit have completed an investigation into the distribution of illegal narcotics in the Hallsboro community of Columbus County. As a result of the investigation, one individual has been arrested and charged. This individual was also charged for child abuse in a separate investigation. Columbus County Sheriff’s Office received numerous citizen complaints of suspected prostitution and illegal drug activity occurring at 53 Valley Lane in Hallsboro. During the investigation, the defendant sold undercover operatives illegal narcotics from his residence. As a result, CCSO Vice-Narcotics Unit along with the CCSO SWAT Team, executed a search warrant at the above address, early this morning. …..

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Federal jury convicts Sampson County man who was a member of a drug trafficking ring

RALEIGH – The United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, Robert J. Higdon, Jr., announced that, Greg Bright, 32, of Turkey, NC, was convicted in federal court following a three day jury trial before Chief United States District Judge James C. Dever III. The jury found Bright guilty of conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute cocaine and cocaine base (crack). The investigation giving rise to the charges faced at trial began in 2013. Multiple and extensive investigative techniques were utilized throughout this case. The evidence presented at trial detailed a significant drug trafficking organization (“DTO”) that was built and lead by Antonio McKoy …..

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Fayetteville man sentenced to more than 12 years for firearm charges

NEW BERN – The United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, Robert J. Higdon, Jr., announced that today in federal court, United States District Judge Louise W. Flanagan sentenced Joseph Luther Lewis, 29, of Fayetteville, North Carolina to 151 months of imprisonment followed by 3 years of supervised release. Lewis was named in an Indictment filed on December 20, 2017. On May 15, 2018, Lewis pleaded guilty to Possession of a Firearm by a Felon and Possession of a Stolen Firearm. On June 25, 2017, the Fayetteville Police Department (FPD) responded to a domestic violence call placed by Lewis’ girlfriend at the time. She stated Lewis lost …..

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Former TSA Officer Sentenced To 25 Years On Drug & Gun Charges

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – United States Attorney Andrew Murray announced today that a former Transportation Security Administration (TSA) Officer was sentenced to 25 years in prison on drug trafficking conspiracy and gun charges.  U.S. District Judge Robert J. Conrad, Jr. also sentenced Jamie Blunder, 50, of Charlotte, to five years of supervised release. According to filed court documents, exhibits entered at Blunder’s trial, witness testimony, and today’s sentencing hearing, from 2002 to 2016, Blunder was part of a drug conspiracy responsible for trafficking large quantities of cocaine and crack cocaine.  Blunder and his network of co-conspirators transported and distributed the narcotics in Charlotte, Greensboro, N.C., Greenville, N.C., and elsewhere.  According to …..

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Columbus County Sheriff’s Office makes Narcotics Arrests

Tabor City, NC – Columbus County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) Vice-Narcotics Unit have completed an investigation into the distribution of illegal narcotics in the Iron Hill community of Columbus County. As a result of the investigation, two individuals have been arrested and charged, along with a third individual who was wanted for unrelated outstanding warrants. During the investigation, multiple undercover purchases of illegal narcotics were completed at the defendants’ residence located at 3094 Reynolds Road in Tabor City. As a result, CCSO Vice-Narcotics Unit along with the CCSO SWAT Team, executed a search warrant at the above address, on July 31st. During the search, agents located multiple dosage units of Oxycodone, …..

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Reward offered for missing service dog

A reward is being offered for a service dog that is missing in the Tar Heel area following a break-in on Friday. “Someone broke in my home yesterday and stole my daughter’s registered service dog. We are devastated,” said Sarah Smith. A reward of $500 is being offered for the return of the dog. If you have any information regarding the missing service dog, call 910-225-2667. Share:

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Citizen complaints lead to drug arrests

The Bladen County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Unit has completed an investigation into the distribution of Controlled Substances in the Quail Street/Martin Luther King Drive area of Elizabethtown said Sheriff James A. McVicker During the investigation, it was determined by the Bladen County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Unit that the below listed individuals were responsible for distributing Controlled Substances in and around Elizabethtown. This investigation originated from citizen complaints which prompted Narcotics Agents to the area of 504 Quail Street, Elizabethtown, NC.  Agents conducted multiple undercover purchases from the defendants in this investigation where varying amounts of marijuana were purchased. This has been a known drug area for over 20 years. At the …..

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Federal Court Awards Nearly $3 Million in Damages and Penalties for Medicaid Fraud Scheme

RALEIGH – The United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, Robert J. Higdon, Jr., announced today that a federal court awarded a nearly $3 million judgment against Compassionate Home Care Services, Inc., Carol Anders, and Ryan Santiago for their participation in a fraud on the North Carolina Medicaid program in violation of the federal and North Carolina False Claims Acts. The evidence at trial showed that between 2008 and 2013, Compassionate Home Care Services, Inc. billed the North Carolina Medicaid program $585,082.73 in fraudulent claims, including not only claims for services provided in violation of Medicaid policies, but also claims for services that were never provided at …..

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Bladen Sheriff Partners State Alcohol Law Enforcement

  Contributed   Bladen County Sheriff James A. McVicker said a joint operation with North Carolina Alcohol Law Enforcement Special Agents from District III Fayetteville and District I Jacksonville has lead to the arrest of a Columbus County man.   McVicker said that on Friday, July 27, 2018, the Bladen County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Unit partnered with North Carolina Alcohol Law Enforcement Special Agents to conduct an illegal alcohol distillery investigation in the Elizabethtown community.  Agents received a complaint via a social media post and arranged a purchase of Non Tax Paid Liquor (NTPL) and conducted an undercover purchase of 1 gallon of NTPL in the Wal-Mart parking lot in …..

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Second suspect surrenders to Sheriff’s Office

Contributed A second individual has surrendered himself to the Bladen County Sheriff’s Office after learning there were active warrants for his arrest for selling heroin in Bladen County. Marcellus Ronquell McLauchlin of Dublin surrendered to authorities on Sunday. He is under a $20,000 bond. McLauchlin is charged as follows: 1 count of Sell/Deliver Heroin 1 count of Possession with Intent to Manufacture/Sell/Deliver Heroin 1 count of Conspiring to Sell/Deliver Heroin 1 count of Felony Possession of Heroin He will have a first appearance hearing in Bladen County District Court on Monday, July 30. Share:

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One person surrenders to Sheriff’s Office

Contributed Thanks to the public’s help, one individual who was wanted on outstanding warrants for selling heroin has surrendered to the Bladen County Sheriff’s Office after learning through the media there were active warrants for their arrest. Deanne Kaye Bryan of Bladenboro surrendered to law enforcement on Thursday and was placed in the Bladen County Jail under a $25,000 bond. She is charged as follows: 1 count of Sell/Deliver Heroin 1 count of Possession with Intent to Manufacture/Sell/Deliver Heroin 1 count of Conspiring to Sell/Deliver Heroin 1 count of Felony Possession of Heroin The Bladen County Sheriff’s Office is still seeking the whereabouts of three other individuals. Share:

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Search Warrants in Bladenboro and Dublin Uncover Drugs, Money and Weapons

 Contributed Bladen County Sheriff James A. McVicker released information this morning concerning the execution of several search warrants. “The Bladen County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Unit has completed an investigation into the distribution of Controlled Substances in the Bladenboro and Dublin communities of Bladen County,” said McVicker. During the investigation, it was determined by the Narcotics Unit that the below listed individuals were responsible for distributing Controlled Substances in and around Bladenboro. This investigation originated from citizen complaints which prompted Narcotics Agents to the area of 419 Elizabethtown Road, Apartment 5B, Bladenboro, NC (Harmony Homes). Agents conducted multiple undercover purchases from the defendants in this investigation where Heroin was purchased. At …..

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Narcotics Arrests Increasing

Contributed Sheriff James McVicker said recently that his Office has experienced a sharp increase in the reported sale of Heroin in the county as it becomes increasingly difficult for addicts to purchase prescription Opioids. “We have seen a spike in the number of people we are arresting for heroin, meth and cocaine sales,” said McVicker. “People are turning to an alternative source to get their high now that prescription drugs are not so readily available in the area. We also expect to see an increase in the distribution of Crystal Methamphetamine and cocaine for the same reason.” McVicker said some addicts are going to meth due to the increased use …..

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ALE Arrests Sovereign Nation Members in Robeson County for Illegal Casinos

LAURINBURG – Members of a sovereign citizen group faced charges Monday of gambling, manufacturing controlled substances and money laundering at illegal casinos in Maxton, Pembroke and Red Springs.  Vehicles, currency, marijuana, firearms and over 200 illegal gaming machines were seized during the raids. More than 26 people of the Tuscarora Nation were arrested following a year-long multi-agency investigation that found the group operating three illegal casinos, an unlicensed police force and an indoor marijuana grow with multiple outdoor grows. The group was also making threats of war against law enforcement. “Citizens living near the casinos complained of the illegal activity taking place and notified law enforcement,” said Terrance Merriweather, head of N.C. Alcohol Law Enforcement, …..

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Search Warrant Leads to Recovery of Stolen Weapons

Contributed Bladen County Sheriff James A. McVicker said a search warrant executed today in the Lisbon area has resulted in the recovery of two stolen weapons, cocaine, marijuana and the seizure of two vehicles. “Narcotics and Criminal Investigators along with a member of our K-9 Unit executed a search warrant at 6750 Airport Road this morning and it has lead to an arrest,” said McVicker. “My investigators are making a concerted effort to visit every known drug dealer in Bladen County in the weeks and months ahead,” McVicker disclosed. “It is our goal to put as many of them out of business as we can.” This morning’s search warrant led …..

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Kelly Area Drug Arrests Made

Contributed Bladen County Sheriff’s Office and Pender County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Units have completed an investigation into the distribution of Controlled Substances in the Cane Tuck Road area of the Kelly community. The joint investigation centered on Sherwood Anderson who it was determined to be the primary suspect and from citizen complaints naming Anderson. On Wednesday, July 18, 2018 the Bladen County Narcotics Unit, Criminal Investigations Unit, K-9 Unit, Patrol Unit and members of the Pender County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Unit, K-9 Unit and Special Response team executed a search warrant at 104 Cane Tuck Road, Kelly. Agents seized Crack Cocaine, Powder Cocaine, as well as prescription medication in the …..

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Missing Columbus County woman located, charged

A missing Columbus County woman has been located. Felicia Ann Turnage was taken into custody yesterday (Tuesday, July 17) by Columbus County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigation Detectives.  She was arrested at 603 Spivey Road in Whiteville, without incident. The Columbus County Sheriff’s Office was attempting to locate Turnage in order to serve her with multiple outstanding warrants. She was served with the following warrants: Tabor City Police Department 1 felony count of Possession of a Stolen Motor Vehicle 1 misdemeanor count of Injury to Personal Property 1 citation of Hit/Run Leaving the Scene of Property Damage Columbus County Sheriff’s Office 1 felony count of Breaking and Entering 1 felony count …..

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Bladen County Sheriff’s Office makes drug arrests

Bladen County Sheriff James A. McVicker announced on Wednesday the arrest of several county residents for selling controlled substances. “The Narcotic’s Unit has been busy during the past few weeks buying drugs and arresting dealers,” said Sheriff McVicker. “We are beginning to see an increase in the use and sale of heroin in the county. This is a trend of addicts who once used prescription medication and can no longer get it, who are now switching to the cheaper but even more addictive heroin as a substitute.” Sheriff McVicker said members of the Patrol Division and Criminal Investigations Unit of the Elizabethtown Police Department assisted the Sheriff’s OfficeNarcotics Unit with …..

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Columbus County Sheriff’s Office Makes Narcotics Arrests

Chadbourn, NC – The Columbus County Sheriff’s Office Vice-Narcotics Unit has completed an investigation into the distribution of controlled substances throughout the Chadbourn community in Columbus County. During the investigation, it was determined by Vice-Narcotics Agents from the Columbus County Sheriff’s Office, that Gene Archie Bellamy, 64, was responsible for distributing controlled substances throughout the community of Chadbourn. This investigation originated from information gathered from numerous citizen complaints. This information led Vice-Narcotics Agents to the area of Wellonton Apartments in Chadbourn. Agents conducted undercover purchases from the defendant in this investigation where amounts of Cocaine were purchased. At the conclusion of the investigation, on July 16, 2018, the Columbus County …..

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Man Arrested for Prescription Drug Abuse

Sheriff James A. McVicker announced the arrest Monday of a Bladenboro area man following an investigation by the Narcotics Unite into the distribution of Controlled Substances in the Storms Road area of Bladen County. “My investigators learned an individual was selling suboxone, a prescription drug used to treat opioid addiction,” said McVicker. “Suboxone is similar to methadone in its intended use. It is meant to treat addiction but sadly it can be abused and become addictive itself or serve as a substitute when addicts cannot obtain the drug of their choice.” Arrested following the investigation and a search warrant executed at his residence was Jonathon Wade Hester, 25, of 1208 …..

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Columbus County Sheriff’s Office seeking public’s help

The Columbus County Sheriff’s Office is still seeking information in the case of a stolen enclosed trailer. On January 20th, a white, Carson 7 foot x 12 foot enclosed trailer was stolen from Peacock Road in Chadbourn. The suspect vehicle is believed to be a Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD with a utility bed. If you recognize the vehicle in these photos or have information about the incident, please contact Columbus County Sheriff’s Office at 910-640-6629.   Share:

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Bladen County Man Pleads to Indecent Liberties with a Child, Sentenced to Prison

ELIZABETHTOWN, NC – William Bryan Clark, 36, of Elizabethtown, entered guilty pleas to two felony counts of Indecent Liberties with a Child on Tuesday in Bladen County Superior Court. As a result of the guilty pleas, Clark was sentenced to 23-37 months in the North Carolina Department of Adult Correction. The charges stem from two separate incidents in 2017 involving Clark when a 9- year-old victim alerted a parent that Clark had repeatedly sent graphic sexual messages to the child over social media. The parent notified law enforcement who initiated an investigation, interviewed Clark, and arrested him. Investigators with the Bladen County Sheriff’s Department filed the second Indecent Liberties with …..

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Bladen County Magistrate arrested by Robeson County Sheriff’s Office

By Erin Smith A Bladen County magistrate has been arrested and charged with one count of felony larceny by employee. Priscella Dean Dunham, 54, of White Oak, was arrested on Monday by the Robeson County Sheriff’s Office and made her first appearance in Robeson County Court on Tuesday. According to reports, Dunham was an employee of the JC Penny Store in Lumberton. Dunham is also a magistrate in Bladen County and Bladen Court records show she has been suspended by Judge Scott Ussery until further notice. Bladen County Chief Deputy Larry Guyton said the Bladen County Sheriff’s Office was not involved in the investigation. Share:

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Two suspects turn themselves in
  • 07/10/2018
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  UPDATE: Keri Jean Hester and Michael Travis Babson turned themselves in today, Tuesday, July 10th according to Bladen County Sheriff’s Office. “Hester had a $1,000 bond and Babson had a $50,000 bond. Both made bond and have first appearance hearing in Bladen District Court tomorrow.” Major Larry Guyton said in a press release earlier today. The Sheriff’s Office gave credit to the media for the two turning themselves in today. Previous article: https://bladenonline.com/breaking-and-entering-suspects-sought/   Share:

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Arrests made in robbery case
  • 07/10/2018
  • Crime
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White Lake Police Department announced in the afternoon on Tuesday three arrests were made in the robbery case at White Lake. White Lake Police Department Lieutenant Mike Salmon released a statement saying, “White Lake Police has identified three suspects in this case with the assistance of the media and public. White Lake Police would like to thank everyone involved in helping identify these individuals.” Warrants for arrest have been issued on the following individuals: Adam Lee Chavis 30, Fayetteville, NC Dewayne Coolidge Pleaseants Jr. 27, Fayetteville NC Thomas Joseph Murdock 28, Fayetteville, NC       Related article: Man robbed of wallet https://bladenonline.com/vehicle-identified-with-three-suspects-in-robbery-case/ Share:

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Truck reported stolen in Cumberland County

Contributed A truck was reported stolen last Sunday around 1:30 a.m. off Highway 301 in Cumberland County. According to Justin McLaurin, who is the brother of the truck’s owner, the truck was last seen headed south but could have turned off any road. The truck’s tag number is MCS2 and also has a picture of eagle on the tag. McLaurin said the truck was last seen near the Newton Grove area on Highway 13. “This feeds a family and gave people jobs,” said McLaurin. Cumberland County law enforcement has been notified of the theft. If anyone has seen the vehicle, call 911 or Justin McLaurin can be reached at 910-303-8380 …..

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Dollar Tree suspect takes plea deal

  By Charlotte Smith Plea deal was handed down for one suspect in the local Dollar Tree breaking and entering case. The Dollar Tree located at 1204 West Broad Street in Elizabethtown reported a breaking and entering on Tuesday, February 27 according to the Elizabethtown Police Department. Employees of the local store were arriving for work on the February morning when they discovered the store had been broken in to and robbed overnight according to law enforcement reports. Elizabethtown Police Investigator D. Cheshire announced two of the three men were arrested and brought to the Bladen County Jail on a Friday evening in May. Robert Fogle born November 7, 1957 was one of the two captured …..

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Vehicle identified with three suspects in robbery case

The White Lake Police has identified the vehicle in which the three suspects were traveling in. The Police Department is requesting assistance from the public locating this vehicle and the three pictured suspects. The three suspects in the photo above allegedly befriended a victim in the evening on July 1st at a business on White Lake Drive. The victim followed the three suspects into the parking lot area of the business according to the police report. The suspects then got into a gray Honda passenger car in the photo below.   The suspects while sitting in the vehicle and the victim standing outside the vehicle asks the victim if he …..

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Breaking and Entering Suspects Sought

UPDATE: Keri Jean Hester and Michael Travis Babson turned themselves in today, Tuesday, July 10th according to Bladen County Sheriff’s Office. “Hester had a $1,000 bond and Babson had a $50,000 bond. Both made bond and have first appearance hearing in Bladen District Court tomorrow.” Major Larry Guyton said in a press release earlier today. The Sheriff’s Office gave credit to the media for the two turning themselves in today.   Previous Article: Bladen County Sheriff James A. McVicker is seeking the public’s help in locating two people wanted for breaking and entering and other unrelated charges. “We are asking for help from our citizens to locate and arrest Michael Travis Babson, …..

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2 arrest made in stolen firearms
  • 07/03/2018
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Two men have been arrested in Virginia for stolen firearms. One firearm and both men arrested are linked to Bladen County. Virginia law enforcement arrested Marcus Jermil Blake, 35, and Darrell Laron Rhodie Jr., 28, both of Elizabethtown on June 26th, after discovering two firearms hidden in a speaker box during a traffic stop according to Lt. Lonnie Cheshire, Criminal Investigations Division, Elizabethtown Police Department. One of the firearms was found had been reported stolen from a car while it was being serviced at the Car Wash on Swanzy Street in Elizabethtown on June 12th, Cheshire reported. According to the report, Blake and Rhodie Jr. were both charged with Possession of …..

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Man robbed of wallet

UPDATE: Arrests made in robbery case On 07-01-2018, at about 2039 hours, the three suspects pictured below befriended the victim at a business located in the 1600 block of White Lake Drive. The victim followed the three suspects into the parking lot area of the business. The suspects then got into a gray Honda passenger car. The suspects while sitting in the vehicle and the victim standing outside the vehicle asks the victim if he could change a ten dollar bill. The victim removed his wallet from his pocket and began to look through it. The suspects snatched the victim’s wallet and drove away. The suspects were last seen in a …..

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Officials say doctor and woman make millions on drugs
  • 07/02/2018
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By Charlotte Smith Dr. Jong Whan Kim, 59, and Tammy Lynn Thompson, 53 are facing more charges and made millions on opioids and other drugs according to Columbus County officials. On Monday the two accused of dispensing drugs illegally had a court hearing. A multi-million dollar bail was set for both.  According to Bladen County Sheriff Jim McVicker and Columbus County Sheriff Lewis Hatcher’s Office an investigation began involving the pair after anonymous reports were filed at both their offices. A Bladen County investigator said Kim has been on the radar for a while for over prescribing opioids.  According to the District Attorney Jon David the duo have been prescribing medications …..

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Teacher pleads on crimes against nature case

By: Charlotte Smith Updated: Many have been following the court case of Shanna May Harrelson, born January 30, 1979. Shanna was a former science teacher at West Bladen High School. On the Monday before Independence Day, Shanna plead to two of the charges against her at the Bladen County Courthouse.  According to court documents, Shanna was scheduled to go to trial on Monday, July 16th. The charges against the defendant were disseminating obscene material to a minor, one felony count of crime against nature, and one felony count of a sex act with a student. Shanna decided to take the plea deal on Monday, July 2 instead of taking her charges to …..

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More Felony charges for Dr. Kim and Thompson 

Additional charges have been obtained for both Thompson and Dr. Kim according to Columbus County Sheirff Hatcher.  Tammy Thompson’s bond is now $3,540,000.00 secured.  Dr. Kim’s bond remains at $5,580,000.00 secured. The additional charges are as follows: Jong Whan Kim 4 Felony counts of Trafficking Opium or Heroin 2 Felony counts of Selling a Controlled Substance Within 1000 feet of a School 2 Felony counts of Possession with the Intent to Manufacture, Sell, and/or Deliver Schedule II Controlled Substance 1 Felony count of Possession with the Intent to Sell and/or Deliver Marijuana 1 Felony count of Possession with the Intent to Manufacture, Sell, and/or Deliver Schedule IV Controlled Substance Tammy …..

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Doctor and his girlfriend arrested for pill mill

Tabor City, NC – The Columbus County Sheriff’s Office Vice-Narcotics Unit arrested two individuals after an approximately seven month long investigation into a “pill mill” operating at 211 East 5th Street in Tabor City.  Dr. Jong Whan Kim along with his office manager and girlfriend, Tammy Lynn Thompson, were arrested today, June 29th.  This investigation originated from numerous citizen complaints and anonymous tips. During the investigation, Columbus County Sheriff’s Office Vice-Narcotics Detectives utilized an undercover agent to purchase ounces of marijuana from Tammy Lynn Thompson, on numerous occasions.  The undercover agent also purchased 115 hydrocodone tablets from Thompson. On June 29th, Columbus County Sheriff’s Office executed a search warrant at …..

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Two Month Undercover Operation Leads to Arrest for Marijuana Dealer

  Contributed Sheriff James A. McVicker announced today the arrest of Kadeem Yorel Archie Bowden, 26, of 60 Robin Drive, Elizabethtown for possession and sale of marijuana following a two month long undercover operation.   “Narcotics Investigators arrested Bowden this morning when they executed a search warrant at this home on Robin Drive off of Owen Hill Drive,” said McVicker. “Many times we keep an operation going for an extended period when we are working these types of cases.”   McVicker said the search warrant that was served in conjunction with the arrest warrant resulted in several ounces of marijuana being seized an several thousand dollars in cash.   Bowden …..

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Updated Charges in the Death of Trooper Samuel Bullard

Yadkin County- As part of a continued investigation involving the May 21st, 2018 death of North Carolina Trooper Samuel N. Bullard during a vehicle pursuit in Yadkin County, additional charges have been filed.  After consultation with the Yadkin County District Attorney’s Office and presenting their office with further findings related to Trooper Bullard’s death and the actions thereafter, the following additional charges have been made. Mona Lisa Mullins –           2 counts of Felony Obstruction –           1 count of Possession of Methamphetamine   Michaela Harrison –           2 counts of Felony Obstruction –           1 count of Possession of Methamphetamine –           1 count of Accessory After The Fact of Second Degree Murder –           1 …..

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TC Doctor, Bladenboro resident arrested for “running pill mill”

A former Elizabethtown doctor with a history of reprimands has been arrested on charges he was operating an opioid distribution operation out of his Tabor city practice. Jong Whan Kim, 72, and Tammy Thompson, 53, were arrested Friday on multiple felony charges. Thompson was the office manager and Kim’s reported girlfriend. The two were managing a large narcotics sales and distribution network in Columbus and Bladen counties, according to District Attorney Jon David. In addition to the “pill mill”  out of Kim’s office, the pair used several homes in Columbus and Bladen to distribute narcotics and marijuana. Sheriff Lewis Hatcher said the duo were identified by multiple complaints from citizens starting in …..

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Update: Former Elizabethtown doctor arrested as part of opioid crackdown

Update from Columbus County Sheriff’s Office as of 9:30 p.m. on Friday, June 29, 2018 READ MORE Update as of 4:07 p.m. on Friday June 29, 2018: A former Elizabethtown doctor with a history of reprimands has been arrested on charges he was operating an opioid distribution operation out of his Tabor city practice. Jong Whan Kim, 72, and Tammy Thompson, 53, were arrested Friday on multiple felony charges. Thompson was the office manager and Kim’s reported girlfriend. The two were managing a large narcotics sales and distribution network in Columbus and Bladen counties, according to District Attorney Jon David. In addition to the “pill mill”  out of Kim’s office, the pair …..

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Columbus County traffic stop leads to arrest

  Tabor City, NC – On June 28, 2018, Columbus County Sheriff’s Office Vice-Narcotics Detectives were patrolling a known drug area in Chadbourn. Vice-Narcotics Detectives noticed a vehicle leaving the area, driving erratically. The driver, James Eldred Buffkin, passed a Vice-Narcotics Detective’s vehicle in a curve, in a no passing area. The detectives initiated a traffic stop on the vehicle. The vehicle stopped near Emerson Road and Old Stake Road in Tabor City. When the Vice-Narcotics Detectives approached the driver of the vehicle, he was attempting to put on his clothing. He was wearing no pants. Vice-Narcotics Detectives searched Mr. Buffkin’s vehicle and located approximately 30 dosage units of Oxycodone. …..

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Stolen items recovered in Columbus County

The Columbus County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) recovered approximately $115,000.00 worth of stolen property, last week.  The property was recovered in three unrelated incidents. On June 20, 2018, Jeffery Lee Allen of Chadbourn discovered that his white 32 feet long, enclosed trailer had been stolen from his property while he was asleep.  Mr. Allen secured his 1968 Chevrolet Camaro race car, along with a generator, racing fuel, and other miscellaneous items inside of the enclosed trailer.  After contacting law enforcement, Mr. Allen posted pictures of his stolen property on social media.  Mr. Allen received a tip in reference to the location of his stolen property.  Mr. Allen immediately contacted the Columbus …..

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Ivanhoe man arrested for murder

An Ivanhoe man who was already under arrest for outstanding warrants from Duplin County, is now facing a murder charge for the shooting death of Jamaris Pridgen. According to reports, Pridgen’s body was found on Saturday, June 2nd,  in shallow grave just off of Wilbur Pridgen Road near the Harrells community. Lajona Demarrias Carr, 41, of Ivanhoe, was charged with Pridgen’s murder on June 22nd. According to reports, Pridgen’s father received a telephone call on June 2nd stating his stepson had been killed and his body could be found in Sampson County. His stepfather searched for Pridgen and eventually located his vehicle, a Honda Civic, on CC Road near Garland …..

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Elizabethtown woman arrested and charged with identity theft

By Erin Smith An Elizabethtown woman was charged with identify theft after a Whiteville Police Officer attempted to serve warrants for driving while license revoked and identity theft from Robeson County on June 16th. According to Division Commander Major A. May, with the Whiteville Police Department, officers were contacted by members of the Robeson County Sheriff’s Office regarding outstanding warrants for Sasha Willis of Elizabethtown who is employed in Whiteville. According to Major May, officers spoke with Willis and advised her she was under arrest for the outstanding warrants from Robeson County. Whiteville Police Officer J. Rawls recognized Willis from a prior traffic stop he had performed. However, she had …..

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Bladen County Sheriff announces stolen boat found

Investigators with Bladen, Columbus and New Hanover Counties located a stolen boat using the Bladen Air 1 Helicopter according to Bladen County Sheriff’s Office. The Sheriff’s office received a citizen tip about the missing boat. The Sheriff reported responding to a wooded area off of Woodyard Rd in Columbus County. The boat was reported stolen from Market 17 Marine in Wilmington on May 11th. The boat was valued at 40,000 dollars. “Thanks to everyone for their assistance. Cooperation is key to solving cases and protecting our citizens,” Sheirff Jim McVicker said. Share:

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Fayetteville Detectives Request Assistance Identifying Robbery Suspect

On Wednesday, June 13, 2018 at approximately 11:45 p.m., officers with the Fayetteville Police Department responded to the BP Gas Station located at 1899 Skibo Road in reference to a personal robbery. The preliminary investigation revealed the victim was behind the gas station when he was approached by an unknown suspect. The suspect displayed a handgun and demanded the victim’s money. The victim complied with the demands and then ran to the McDonald’s to seek assistance and call 911. The suspect was observed fleeing the area on a bicycle heading towards Cross Creek Mall, where he later was seen on surveillance footage running through the mall with a mask and …..

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World Elder Abuse Awareness Day

RALEIGH – Today, as the Department of Justice recognizes World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, Robert J. Higdon, Jr., the United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, reaffirms the Eastern District of North Carolina’s commitment to combating elder abuse and financial exploitation.  Mr. Higdon commented: “Our seniors deserve our best efforts to prosecute those who attempt to capitalize on their vulnerabilities.  As the Department of Justice continues to collaborate with other Departments to fight elder abuse on the national scale, the Eastern District of North Carolina continues to pursue justice for elderly victims in its district.” Examples of our commitment to prosecuting crimes targeting our elderly citizens include the …..

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Elizabethtown PD warns residents to lock your car doors

By Erin Smith The Elizabethtown Police Department is warning the town’s residents to lock their car doors at all times. Sgt. Detective T. Davis said the department has received six reports so far of someone entering unlocked vehicles on the east side of town and removing money. “We urge everyone to please leave their vehicles locked at all times,” said Sgt. Davis. He said the individual or individuals responsible have been checking car doors and have only entered the vehicles they found to be unlocked. None of the vehicles have been damaged and no other valuables have been reported missing, according to Sgt. Davis. He said the latest incident happened …..

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Whiteville man arrested for Insurance Fraud

Whiteville, NC – Columbus County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigative Unit and Columbus County Fire Marshal’s Office have completed a joint investigation of a structure fire that occurred at 166 Johnny George Roadin Whiteville. As a result of the investigation, one individual has been charged for intentionally setting the fire. On April 12, 2018, at approximately 6:30 am, the Columbus County Deputy Fire Marshall was dispatched to the residence on Johnny George Road in reference to a structure fire. Columbus County Sheriff’s Office was notified to assist with the investigation. The residence belonged to Thomas Baldwin of Whiteville. Mr. Baldwin allowed his nephew, Gebriel Jermaine Shipman, to reside in the residence. Mr. Shipman …..

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Second man charged in Clarkton murder has case continued

By Erin Smith A second man charged in the murder of a man on Ida’s Lane in Clarkton appeared in Bladen County Superior Court and had his case continued. Raliek Tyree Lapaix is facing a charge of first degree murder in the death of Charles Leon Leach of Clarkton. He is scheduled to appear in Bladen County Superior Court on Monday, July 9th. Lapaix is charged along with Gabriel James McDowell and Malik Sharmaine Riggans with robbing and killing Leach, 60, who lived on Ida’s Lane near Clarkton. Share:

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Three Aliens Indicted on Illegal Re-entry Charges

GREENVILLE – Robert J. Higdon, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, announces that a federal grand jury in Greenville has returned indictments charging Aquileo Perez-Pineda, age 48, of Mexico, Abel Ramirez-Uribe, age 33, of Mexico, and Pedro Vicente Sanchez-Jovel, age 34, of Guatemala, with Illegal Reentry of a Deported Alien. If convicted of Illegal Reentry of a Deported Alien,Perez-Pineda, found in Harnett County, would face maximum penalties of two years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and a term of supervised release following any term of imprisonment. If convicted of Illegal Reentry Subsequent to a Felony Conviction (possession of a controlled substance),Ramirez-Uribe, found in Robeson County, and …..

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Lumberton Man Sentenced for Possession of an Unregistered Firearm

GREENVILLE – The United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, Robert J. Higdon, Jr., announced that today in federal court, Senior United States District Judge Malcolm J. Howard sentenced Roderick McNeill, 23, of Lumberton, North Carolina to 40 months of imprisonment followed by 3 years of supervised release. McNeill was named in an Indictment on June 22, 2017.  On March 12, 2018, McNeill pled guilty to one-count of Possession of an Unregistered Firearm. On April 4, 2016, Lumberton Police Department officers responded to a complaint of shots fired in the vicinity of a business which had both a restaurant and convenience store in the same building.  Upon their arrival, investigators …..

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Detectives Request Assistance Identifying Robbery Suspects

Fayetteville, NC— On Wednesday, May 30, 2018 at approximately 2:00 am, officers with the Fayetteville Police Department responded to the Econo Lodge located at 1952 Cedar Creek Road in reference to a reported robbery of a person. The preliminary investigation revealed the victim was speaking to a female he recently became acquainted with in a breezeway at this location. The victim was then struck in the back of his head by an unknown suspect. The victim was then assaulted by a black male. The suspects left with the victim’s cell phone, laptop, wallet, and vehicle. The vehicle is a 2010 Dodge Grand Caravan, white in color, and was displaying Florida …..

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Man charged with Clarkton murder offered plea

By Erin Smith   The attorney representing the man who is charged with the shooting death of Lonnie Level Smith was in Bladen County Superior Court on Monday. According to attorney Brooke Mangum, her client, Harold Eugene Swindell, has received a plea offer from the Bladen County District Attorney’s Office. Mangum informed Bladen County Resident Superior Court Judge Douglas Sasser the Bladen County District Attorney’s Office offered a plea arrangement and it has been conveyed to Swindell. According to Mangum, the District Attorney’s Office has agreed to allow Swindell until August to make a decision as to whether or not he will accept the agreement. No details of the plea …..

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One of three charged in December murder appears in court

By Erin Smith The attorney for one of three co-defendants in the murder of Charles Leon Leach which took place at Ida’s Lane in Clarkton in December appeared in Bladen County Superior Court on Monday. Bladen County Resident Superior Court Judge Douglas Sasser heard arguments regarding setting bond for Malik Riggins. Riggins’ Attorney, William Dowdy, appeared before Judge Sasser and requested the court consider setting an unsecured bond for Riggins. Dowdy argued that there was a blood card and other evidence collected at the crime scene and sent to a private lab. Dowdy told the court the tests performed by the private lab were inconclusive. Dowdy argued Riggins, who is …..

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Elizabethtown Woman Arrested in Whiteville

Sheriff James A. McVicker announced today the arrest of an Elizabethtown woman wanted by Bladen County for selling narcotics. “The Whiteville Police Department arrested Antonia Nicole Smith, 30, of Elizabethtown Sunday on several outstanding warrants,” McVicker disclosed. Smith was charged with Sell/Deliver Cocaine, Maintain a Dwelling for the Purpose of Keeping or Selling Controlled Substances, Manufacturing Cocaine, Possession With Intent to Manufacture/Sell/Deliver Cocaine, and Possession of Cocaine. Smith was booked into the Columbus County Detention Center under a $50,000.00 secured bond. She will be transferred to Bladen County to face the charges in District Court in Elizabethtown. Share:

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Sampson County man sentenced to more than 17 years in prison for robbery

RALEIGH – United States Attorney Robert J. Higdon, Jr. announced that today in federal court, Chief United States District Judge James C. Dever, III sentenced James Daniel Mckoy, 54 from Garland, North Carolina, to 210 months in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release. James Mckoy was part of a violent drug trafficking organization operating in Sampson County. On February 5, 2018, James Mckoy pled guilty to Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess With Intent to Distribute 5 Kilograms of More of Cocaine, 280 Grams of More of Cocaine Base (Crack), a Quantity of Marijuana, and a Quantity of Heroin; three-counts of Distribution of a Quantity of Cocaine Base while …..

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LaGrange Farmer Sentenced for Crop Insurance Fraud, Fraudulent Federal Crop Disaster Claims, Aggravated Identity Theft and Conspiracy to Commit Money Laundering

RALEIGH – United States Attorney Robert J. Higdon, Jr. announced that in federal court today, Chief United States District Judge James C. Dever III sentenced JAMES TRUMAN WIGGINS, JR.¸68, of LaGrange, North Carolina to 25 months of imprisonment to be followed by 5 years of supervised release.  In addition the court ordered WIGGINS to pay restitution in the amount of $5,669,891.00 and he is excluded from participating in any federal crop insurance programs for 5 years.  The court also ordered forfeiture in the amount of $5,600,433.00. WIGGINS previously pleaded guilty to a Criminal Information charging him with conspiracy to commit various offenses against the United States, false statements to the Federal Crop Insurance Corporation, material …..

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FEDERAL JURY CONVICTS THREE SAMPSON COUNTY MEMBERS OF A VIOLENT DRUG TRAFFICKING ORGANIZATION

RALEIGH – The United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, Robert J. Higdon, Jr., announced that, ANTONIO KEVIN MCKOY, 31, of Garland, NC, TONY CHEVALLIER, 31, of Turkey, NC, and JABARR RYEHEINE RUDOLPH, 38, of Clinton, NC were convicted in Federal Court following a seven day jury trial before Chief United States District Judge James C. Dever, III. The jury found all three men guilty of Conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute significant quantities of multiple controlled substances, including methamphetamine, heroin, crack cocaine and cocaine, and “Molly”. Additional convictions were sustained for the distribution of various controlled substances and multiple firearm related charges. …..

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Elizabethtown man found not guilty of drugs charges

By Erin Smith An Elizabethtown man was found not guilty of drugs charges and other charges against him have been dismissed. Treiman Davon Thomas, of 1003 Richardson Street in Elizabethtown, was found not guilty of possession with intent to manufacture sell and deliver, not guilty of possession of schedule II substance, and not guilty of delivering a schedule II substance and a charge of manufacture was dismissed at the discretion of the court. The jury trial took place on May 21st. Court records also show Thomas had charges of maintaining a vehicle/dwelling to sell controlled substances a charge for sell and delivering controlled substances dismissed at the discretion of the prosecution. Thomas …..

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Former Smithfield employee charged with larceny

By Erin Smith A former Smithfield Foods employee was arrested and charged with felony larceny by employee. Michael James Baxley Jr. of 310 Ronald Britt Road, Bladenboro, was charged with three counts of felony larceny by employee and three counts of possession of stolen goods, according to Bladen County Sheriff’s Office Chief Deputy Larry Guyton. He is scheduled to appear in Bladen County District Court on Thursday, May 31. “He was caught removing stainless steel from Smithfield. It was a stainless steel drum known as a belly washer,” said Guyton. The belly washer was valued at $7,000. Guyton said the investigation was conducted over several weeks and led officers to Omni Source …..

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Fayetteville Man Sentenced After Conviction for Operation Illegal Gambling Business

NEW BERN – The United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, Robert J. Higdon, Jr., announced that, Kiet Vo, 50, of Fayetteville, was sentenced by United States District Judge Louise W. Flanagan to 18 months imprisonment for one count of Conspiracy to Conduct an Illegal Gambling Business. In January 2015, with the assistance of confidential informants (CIs), surveillance, and undercover operations, law enforcement established that a number of illegal gambling businesses were in operation in Cumberland County, North Carolina. Each gambling business had multiple video gaming machines (VGMs) which were owned and supplied by Kiet Vo and his wife, Phuong Truong.  CIs identified multiple co-conspirators who operated the …..

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Lumberton Man Sentenced for Possession of a Stolen Firearm and Felon in Possession Charges

RALEIGH – The United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, Robert J. Higdon, Jr., announced that Chief United States District Judge James C. Dever, III sentenced Marvin Earl Blanks, Jr., 33, of Lumberton, North Carolina, to 84 months imprisonment followed by 3 years of supervised release. Blanks was named in a two-count Indictment on June 15, 2017 charging him with one count of Possession of Stolen Firearms and one count of Possession of a Firearm by a Felon.  On December 21, 2017, Blanks pled guilty to those charges. On August 12, 2016, officers of the Elizabethtown Police Department took a report as to the theft of a .38 caliber Taurus …..

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Roseboro Man Charged With Carjacking on Interstate 95

WILMINGTON– The United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, Robert J. Higdon, Jr., announces that a Federal grand jury in Wilmington has returned an indictment against Raymond Lee Bryant, Jr., of Roseboro, North Carolina.  Bryant is charged with carjacking, carrying and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to the carjacking,  possession with intent to distribute marijuana and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. If convicted of these charges, Bryant would face a statutory minimum of fifty-five years imprisonment and a term of supervised release following any term of imprisonment. According to law enforcement, Bryant, is alleged to have committed multiple carjackings on Interstate 95 in …..

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Four wheelers target of Bladen County thieves

By Erin Smith Bladen County residents are being urged to secure their four wheelers when they are not in use after a rash of four wheeler thefts. “There have been several four wheelers stolen in the southern part of Bladen County,” said Bladen County Chief Deputy Larry Guyton. The most recent theft was reported on Wednesday, May 23rd, when a homeowner’s wife reported their Polaris Four Wheeler was missing. The incident ocurred at 154 McKee Road, Clarkton, said Guyton. The missing four wheeler is described as a red 2018 Polaris 570 Sportsman with two brackets in the front holding a speaker. The four wheeler was valued at $7,200 and has …..

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Shallotte Police asking public’s help identifying suspect

By Erin Smith The Shallotte Police Department is asking for the public’s help in identifying the man in the photos. He is wanted for questioning by police for making fraudulent purchases at the Lowes Home Improvement Store in Shallotte and at other locations in North and South Carolina. If you have any information as to the identity of the individual in the photos, you are asked to contact the Shallotte Police Department at 910-754-6008 and ask for Detective Sgt. J. Holman. Share:

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Bladen County Sheriff's Department

Sheriff’s Office Seeks Help in Locating Wanted Individuals

Sheriff James A. McVicker is seeking the help of the public to locate several individuals being sought for the sale of drugs in Bladen. “Following an undercover operation involving the controlled purchase of narcotics, we are looking for these individuals to arrest,” said McVicker. “We need the public’s help to locate these individuals. If you know where they can be found please contact the Sheriff’s Officer at 910-862-6960. All information will be kept confidential.” The people being sought are: Nathaniel Spivey, 37, of Bladenboro is wanted for possession of schedule III controlled substances, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of schedule VI controlled substances, maintaining a dwelling for the purpose of …..

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Bladen County Sheriff's Department

Tar Heel Area Narcotics Roundup Leads To Multiple Arrests

Sheriff James A. McVicker said Narcotics Investigators completed a three month undercover operation in and around Tar Heel with the arrest of several drug dealers. At least a half dozen of those arrested were employees of Smithfield Foods, according to the Bladen County Sheriff’s Office. “Pursuant to a three-month investigation and numerous controlled purchases of illegal narcotics in the Tar Heel area of Bladen County, the Bladen County Sheriff’s Office, Robeson County Sheriff’s Office, Lumberton Police Department, Fayetteville Police Department, Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms, Homeland Security, and North Carolina Probation and Parole conducted a multi-agency round-up on Tuesday, May 22, 2018”, said McVicker. Nine individuals were arrested for …..

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Man Arrested for Death of Trooper S. N. Bullard

Elkin- The suspect sought in the murder investigation of Trooper S. N. Bullard is in custody after an extensive search by state and local authorities.  On Wednesday, May 23 at approximately 3:30 a.m., investigators arrested Dakota Kape Whitt, 22, of Elkin without incident. At approximately 10:53 p.m., troopers attempted to stop a black BMW passenger vehicle that traveled through a checkpoint.  During the pursuit of the BMW, Trooper S. N. Bullard was involved in a collision, causing Bullard to succumb to his injuries at the scene. After an extensive search, authorities located the BMW along with the registered owner, identified as Cheyenne Harrison.  The driver of the BMW was identified as Dakota Kape Whitt, 22, …..

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Two make first appearance, one still sought in Dollar Tree robbery

By Erin Smith Two South Carolina men made their first appearance today in Bladen County Superior Court on charges related to the February robbery of the Dollar Tree in Elizabethtown. Robert Lee Fogle, age 60, and Darryl Antonio Burden, age 35, both of South Carolina, appeared before Judge James Bell Jr. on Monday morning for their first appearance. Both men are charged with safecracking, felony breaking and entering and felony larceny after breaking and entering. Both men are scheduled to be back in Bladen County Superior Court on June 4th. Judge Bell appointed Attorney Andrew Wall to represent Fogle. Fogle remained in the Bladen County Jail under a $100,000 bond. Burden waived his …..

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Case against Clarkton man dismissed

By Erin Smith A case against a Clarkton man was dismissed on Monday morning in Bladen County Superior Court. District Attorney Quentin McGee told Judge James G. Bell, Jr. the case against Marcus Cyril McKoy was dismissed. Marcus Cyril McKoy, of Pear Tree Road, Clarkton, was arrested in October 2016 and charged with one count of Robbery With A Dangerous Weapon and two counts of Second Degree Kidnapping that occurred on October 7th, 2016, in the Clarkton area. McGee said the charges stemmed from a 2016 home invasion/robbery in the Clarkton area. One of the victims has passed away since the incident ocurred and the second victim has changed their account of what …..

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Narcotics Arrest
  • 05/18/2018
  • Crime
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Whiteville, NC – During the early morning hours of May 18, 2018, Columbus County Sheriff’s Office Deputies were dispatched to a residence on Gore Trailer Road in Whiteville. The call was in reference to a domestic dispute between the adults residing at the residence, the defendant, his girlfriend, and her mother.  Two young children also reside at the residence and were present at the time of the incident. While deputies were on scene, they discovered precursors used in the manufacturing of methamphetamine.  The Columbus County Sheriff’s Office Vice-Narcotics Unit was contacted to assist with the investigation.  The Vice-Narcotics Detectives obtained a search warrant for the property.  While executing the search warrant, …..

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Bladen County Commissioner to appear in Brunswick County court

Bladen County Commissioner Ashley S. Trivette is scheduled to appear on Tuesday, June 5th, in Brunswick County Superior Court. According to court records, she is facing charges of DWI and misdemeanor child abuse. Trivette was indicted on the misdemeanor child abuse charge in February and the indictment was served on March 2, according to court records. She is represented by Attorney James McGee.  Share:

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Case continued for Man in November standoff

The man involved in a 6-hour standoff with law enforcement in Dublin in November had his case continued in Bladen County Superior Court.  McKenzie Brisson is scheduled to appear in Bladen County Superior Court on July 9th.  Attorney Harold “Butch” Pope told the court in March his client was in a treatment center in Asheville. Brisson was involved in an armed standoff with law enforcement which lasted 6 hours in November. During the standoff, Brisson fired rounds of ammunition in and around a home on Paul Brisson Road in Dublin. The shots eventually ceased and law enforcement sent a robot into the house to locate Brisson. The robot was initially unable …..

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Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office makes Narcotics Bust

Agents with the Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office Vice-Narcotics Unit have arrested two South Carolina men on multiple drug charges following a traffic stop yesterday evening. Dashon Cortez Grate, 27, of Golf Colony Lane, Little River, SC, is charged with two counts of PWIMSD heroin, sell/deliver heroin maintaining a vehicle used for selling heroin and other opiates, two counts of trafficking opum/heroin, conspiring to traffic opium/heroin, and possession of drug paraphernalia. Grate was booked into the Brunswick County Detention Facility under a $1 million bond. Marqivies Sedale Crawford, 28, of Irees Way, Longs, SC, is charged with two counts of trafficking opium/heroin, and conspiring to traffic opium/heroin. Crawford was also processed …..

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Fayetteville PD makes Narcotics Arrests

Officers with the Fayetteville Police Department’s Cross Creek District Community Empowerment Response Team (CERT) have charged and arrested four suspects for felony narcotic violations as the result of a search warrant executed along the 4500 block of Sterling Street on May 14, 2018. Officers conducted a search warrant at a residence along the 4500 block of Sterling Street as a result of an ongoing investigation in to the manufacturing, sell, and delivery of illegal narcotics. The following was located and seized during the execution of the search warrant: Over a quarter kilo of cocaine Approximately one (1) ounce of Fentanyl Heroin Marijuana A revolver handgun An AR-15 The Fayetteville Police …..

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White Oak man charged with resisting arrest

By Erin Smith Two Bladen County Sheriff’s Deputies received minor injuries last week when they attempted to serve an arrest warrant at a residence in White Oak. According to Bladen County Chief Deputy Larry Guyton, the two deputies arrived at 36 Lair Brown Road off of River Road in White Oak to serve a warrant for the arrest of Maurice Alphonso Williams, 46.  The warrants were for misdemeanor communicating threats and misdemeanor assault on a female, said Guyton. When officers attempted to arrest Williams he refused to go with the officers and began to fight with them, said Guyton.  “He told them he was not going,” said Guyton.  Williams fought with the …..

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Breaking and Entering suspects get caught at gun point

The saying goes, “Crime doesn’t pay.” Those words rang true Sunday evening for three suspects accused of trying to break in a Bladen County barn. “Three people tried to break into our barn and Dad and I held them at gun point until the cops got there,” Brent Underwood explained. The three suspects, Phillip Turner, Angel Bass and Joshua Johnson were charged Sunday evening with larceny crimes, according to Bladen County Sheriff records. Share:

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Suspects Arrested for Felony Narcotic Violations

Fayetteville, NC – Officers with the Fayetteville Police Department’s Central District Community Empowerment Response Team (CERT), with assistance from the Narcotics Unit, have identified and charged two suspects for felony narcotic violations as the result of a search warrant, along the 1100 block of Bernadine Street, on May 10, 2018. Officers conducted a search warrant at a residence along the 1100 block of Bernadine Street as a result of an ongoing investigation in to the manufacturing, sell, and delivery of illegal narcotics. During the execution of the search warrant, the Fayetteville Police Department’s Emergency Response Team (ERT) entered the residence to secure the residence and to secure any persons located …..

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Two arrested for Whiteville Dollar General robbery

Whiteville, NC – On April 29, 2018, the Dollar General located at 25 Dock Road in Whiteville was robbed at gun point by two masked subjects. The manager and a store employee locked the store and were getting into their vehicles when a masked male came from the side of the store with a shotgun in his hand. The subject pointed the shotgun at the victims and demanded them to unlock the store door and reenter same. Another masked male appeared and entered the store with the armed subject and the victims. Once inside, the subjects demanded money from the safe. They were advised that the safe was on a time delay. …..

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Former teacher faces trial for sex with student

By Erin Smith Bladen County Superior Court records indicate a former West Bladen High School teacher will face trial in July on charges she had sex with a student.  According to court documents, Shanna May Harrelson will go to trial on Monday, July 16th. She is facing charges of disseminating obscene material to a minor and crime against nature: sex act with a student.  The charge of disseminating obscene material to a minor and the charge of crime against nature each carry a maximum sentence of 24 months and one felony count of a sex act with a student carries a maximum sentence of 47 months. Harrelson was a science teacher …..

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Final defendant in Council murder case to go to trial

By Erin Smith The final defendant charged in the 2015 shooting death of Darrell Dionte Council will soon face trial. Attorney Gregory Bullard, who is representing Christopher James Baldwin, appeared in Bladen County Superior Court on Monday and a trial date of September 24th was set.  Baldwin is facing charges of murder, two counts of felony conspiracy, one count of attempted first degree murder, and discharging a firearm into an occupied vehicle in operation.  Darrell Dionte Council was shot in November 2015 near the intersection of Center Road and Twisted Hickory Road. According to the Bladen County Sheriff’s Office, Council and his brother were sitting in a vehicle at a stop sign when two …..

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Roseboro Man Charged With Carjacking on I-95

RALEIGH – The United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, Robert J. Higdon, Jr., announced that in federal court, before United States Magistrate Judge Robert T. Numbers, II, Raymond Lee Bryant, Jr., of Roseboro, North Carolina, was charged in a federal Criminal Complaint with carjacking and carrying and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to the carjacking. According to the affidavit attached to the Criminal Complaint, Bryant, is alleged to have committed multiple carjackings on Interstate 95 in Dunn, North Carolina on May 3, 2018. Bryant is alleged to have approached a semi-truck and trailer, forced the driver and passenger out of the truck at gunpoint …..

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Federal Jury Convicts Lumberton Man for Drug Trafficking and Firearm Offenses

   GREENVILLE – Robert J. Higdon, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, announces that today in Federal court, Tranquere Sanchez Irons, a 30-year-old resident of Lumberton, was convicted following a two-day trial before Senior United States District Judge Malcolm J. Howard. The jury found Irons guilty of Possession with the Intent to Distribute a Quantity of Cocaine Base (Crack), Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime and Being a Felon in Possession of a firearm. Sentencing is scheduled for August 7, 2018. Irons faces up to life imprisonment. The evidence at trial showed that on March 3, 2017, Officers with the …..

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President of NC Mental Health Service Provider Indicted for Not Paying Employment Taxes

WASHINGTON – A federal grand jury sitting in Raleigh, North Carolina returned an indictment today charging a Raleigh man with seven counts of willful failure to pay over employment taxes, announced Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Richard E. Zuckerman of the Justice Department’s Tax Division. According to the indictment, Sainte Deon Robinson failed to pay to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) more than $450,000 in federal employment taxes withheld from the wages paid to employees of his mental health services business, OneCare Inc.  The indictment alleges that Robinson served in several positions at OneCare Inc., including President.  If convicted, the defendant faces a statutory maximum sentence of five years in prison …..

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Six Aliens Indicted on Illegal Reentry Charges

RALEIGH – Robert J. Higdon, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, announces that a federal grand jury in Raleigh has returned indictments charging Ivan Diaz- Ramirez, age 33, of Mexico, Pedro Landeros-Tetatzia, age 33, of Mexico, and Fredi Perez-Navarro, age 44, of Mexico, Raul Mireles- Prado, age 43, of Mexico, Angel Pisano, age 44, of Mexico, and Aurelio Ramirez-Barrientos, age 41, of Mexico, with illegal reentry of a deported alien. If convicted of illegal reentry of an alien, Diaz-Ramirez, found in Duplin County, Landeros-Tetatzia, found in Harnett County, Perez-Navarro, found in Robeson County, Mireles-Prado, found in Wake County, Pisano, found in Wake County, and Ramirez-Barrientos, …..

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Man Sentenced to More Than 16 Years for Drug Distribution Charge

RALEIGH – The United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, Robert J. Higdon, Jr., announced that today in federal court, Senior United States District Judge W. Earl Britt sentenced FRANZ DIDYER RAMOS-FERNANDEZ, 29, of Pasadena, Texas, to 195 months of imprisonment followed by 6 years of supervised release.  RAMOS-FERNANDEZ and co-defendant Fernando Enrique Cardona-Zavala were named in a five-count Indictment filed on June 27, 2017.  On September 14, 2017 RAMOS-FERNANDEZ pled guilty to Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess With Intent to Distribute a Quantity of Methamphetamine, a Quantity of Cocaine, and a Quantity of Marijuana. The investigation revealed that RAMOS-FERNANDEZ was the head of a drug trafficking organization (DTO) selling crystal methamphetamine (hereinafter referred to …..

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Weekend Drug Arrest

Sheriff James A. McVicker said members of the Narcotics and Patrol Divisions conducted saturation patrols in several communities this weekend based on citizen complaints. “My deputies, acting on information and complaints from various communities worked aggressive enforcement in East Arcadia, White Oak, Abbottsburg, Bolton (Jacobs Loop Road) and Clarkton this past weekend, resulting in several arrests and drug seizures,” McVicker announced. “When we get complaints we try to actively work them. If people of a community reach out to us we will do our best to respond and work with the good citizens to rid their area of drug dealers, and other criminal activity.” A shooting occurred Friday night at …..

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Columbus County Breaking and Entering arrest 

Whiteville, NC – The Columbus County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigation Division has completed an investigation into a residential break in that occurred on April 19, 2018, on Smyrna Road. At a few minutes after 10:00 am, Columbus County Sheriff’s Office Deputies were dispatched to a residence on Smyrna Road in reference to an alarm call. The homeowners could see an unknown black male inside of their home via their security cameras.  The suspect fled the home on foot, traveling towards Brown Maultsby Road. Fortunately, no property was stolen during the incident. The victims posted photos from the video footage on social media, seeking assistance from the public to identify the male …..

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East Bladen Student Arrested For Drugs On Campus

Sheriff James A. McVicker announced the arrest today of Jasper McKenzie Munn, 18, of 261 Blue Moon Drive, Elizabethtown for the possession and sale of narcotics on the campus at East Bladen High School. “Narcotics agents conducted an operation at East Bladen High School today and arrested and charged Munn with Possession With Intent to Manufacture/Sell/Deliver Marijuana, Possession of Marijuana, Maintaining a Vehicle For The Purpose of Keeping and Selling Controlled Substances, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia,” said McVicker. Munn was booked into the Bladen County Detention Center under a $5,500.00 secured bond. He made bond and will have a first appearance hearing in Bladen County District Court on Monday, …..

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Clarkton man dies at Columbus County Detention Center

By Erin Smith A Clarkton man who was arrested last week in connection with a joint investigation by the Bladen County Sheriff”s Office and Columbus County Sheriff’s Office of a marijuana growing operation was found dead in his cell on Thursday. A press release from the Columbus County Sheriff’s Office on Monday stated Andrew James Ellis, 37, of Mercer Mill Road, Clarkton, was found unresponsive at the Columbus County Detention Center in Whiteville at 6:30 a.m. on Thursday, April 19. According to officials, jail staff attempted CPR until Whiteville Rescue arrived and Ellis was transported to Columbus Regional Healthcare System in Whiteville were he was pronounced dead. Ellis was facing charges of: *Possession with the Intent to Manufacture/Sell/Deliver …..

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Teen wanted in Brunswick County for attempted murder

By Erin Smith A teenager is wanted in Brunswick County for attempted murder, according to the Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office. The teen is being sought on two charges of attempted murder following a shooting that occurred in Bolivia on Thursday.  According to the Brunswick County Sheriff’s’ Office, Jadakiss Jeheim Watkins, 16, of Delco, is wanted in connection to a shooting that ocurred at 3:15 p.m. on Zack Street in Bolivia. Watkins is alleged to have fired a gun towards two individuals who were outside of the residence.  Anyone with information as to the whereabouts of Jadakis Jeheim Watkins should contact Det. Hester at 910-713-8360 or call 911.   Share:

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Two Whiteville Men Pled Guilty to Bank Robbery and Firing Weapons at Law Enforcement Officers

RALEIGH – United States Attorney Robert J. Higdon, Jr. announced that in federal court today, Rashad Davonte Young, 27, and Jeramie Ross Vaughn, 30, of Whiteville, North Carolina pled guilty in Raleigh before United States District Judge Terrence W. Boyle to one count of Bank Robbery and one count of Discharging a Firearm in Furtherance of a Bank Robbery. On January 23, 2018, at approximately 3:35 p.m., Young, Vaughn, and two co-conspirators entered the PNC Bank in Lumberton, North Carolina where they held the PNC Bank employees and a customer at gunpoint while they stole over $40,000 in United States currency. They were in the bank for approximately 10 minutes. …..

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Two Month Cross County Undercover Investigation Leads to Arrest

Bladen County Sheriff James A. McVicker announced today the arrest of Curtis Devon Ballard, 33, of Clint Drive, Whiteville. “This arrest is the result of an undercover investigation involving controlled buys by members of the Bladen County Narcotics Unit,” said McVicker. Ballard was arrested Tuesday at his residence by the Columbus County Sheriff’s Office Uniform Patrol Division. He was placed in Columbus County Detention Center under a $125,000.00 secured bond. Ballard was charged with Sell/Deliver Marijuana (2 counts), Sell/Deliver Schedule II (Cocaine), Possession With Intent to Manufacture/Sell/Deliver Marijuana (2 counts), Possession With Intent to Manufacture/Sell/Deliver Schedule II (Cocaine), Manufacture Marijuana (2 counts), Manufacture Schedule II (Cocaine), Maintaining a Vehicle For …..

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Bladen- Columbus Narcotics Team Arrest one After Search

On Monday, April 16, 2018 Narcotics Agents with the Bladen/Columbus County Narcotics Taskforce executed a search at 9329 Mercer Mill Road, Clarkton NC after citizen complaints of an indoor marijuana grow operation.  Pursuant to the search, Andrew James Ellis, 37, of Clarkton was arrested and charged with the following criminal offenses: Bladen County Sheriff’s Office charged Ellis with: Felony possession of marijuana Manufacture marijuana Possession with intent to manufacture/sell/deliver marijuana Maintaining a dwelling for the purpose of keeping/selling marijuana  Columbus County Sheriff’s Office charged Ellis with: Possession with intent to manufacture/sell/deliver marijuana Possession with intent to manufacture/sell/deliver Schedule II CS Ellis was arrested in Columbus County and taken to the …..

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Jury finds Shanika Mitchell guilty of murder

By Erin Smith The jury deliberated for one and one-half hours Friday afternoon before returning a verdict of guilty in the Shanika Mitchell murder trial in Bladen County Superior Court. Superior Court Judge Tanya Wallace sentenced Mitchell to life in prison with parole. Assistant District Attorney Quentin McGee told the court during the sentencing phase that due to the fact the sole basis of the jury’s verdict is the felony murder rule and the fact Mitchell was under the age of 18 at the time of the shooting, under North Carolina law she must be sentenced to life in prison with the possibility of parole after 25 years. Mitchell was …..

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Leland woman arrested on embezzlement charges

By Erin Smith The Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office arrested a Leland woman on Tuesday for embezzling medication from her employer. According to The Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office social media, Michelle Margaret Whitney, 36, of Leland was arrested and charged with three counts of embezzlement of a controlled substance by an employee and two counts of trafficking in opiates. She was employed by the Brunswick Cove Assisted Living Facility in Winnabow. Her bond was reported to be $450,000. Share:

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