Executive Summary
- Cumberland County deputies executed a search warrant Friday morning on Nashville Drive in Fayetteville.
- Anthony Keith Autry, 58, was arrested and charged with multiple counts of drug trafficking and firearm possession by a felon.
- Investigators seized a Glock 42 handgun, fentanyl, cocaine, methamphetamine, marijuana, and various prescription pills.
- Autry is being held at the Cumberland County Jail on a $675,000 secured bond.
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, N.C. — Cumberland County Sheriff’s deputies arrested a 58-year-old man Friday following a morning raid at a Fayetteville residence that yielded a firearm and a diverse cache of illegal narcotics, according to law enforcement officials.
The Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office stated in a news release that the operation was conducted shortly after 9 a.m. at a home located in the 4000 block of Nashville Drive, near Gillespie Street in south Fayetteville. During the execution of the search warrant, investigators reportedly discovered a significant quantity of controlled substances and a weapon.
Deputies reported seizing a Glock 42 .380 ACP handgun along with seven different types of illegal drugs. According to the inventory list provided by the Sheriff’s Office, the seized narcotics included purple powder testing positive for fentanyl, a white crystal substance identified as cocaine, methamphetamine, marijuana, Oxycodone, Xanax, and Suboxone.
Authorities identified the suspect as Anthony Keith Autry, 58. He has been charged with multiple felonies, including possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, two counts of trafficking cocaine, two counts of trafficking methamphetamine, and four counts of trafficking opium or heroin. Additional charges include maintaining a dwelling for the use of narcotics and possession with intent to manufacture, sell, or deliver marijuana.
Sheriff Johnathan Morgan commented on the operation in a written statement. “The successful execution of today’s search warrant marks another notable milestone, demonstrating the Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office’s dedication and tenacity,” Morgan said. “Our ongoing efforts are making significant progress in our campaign against illegal narcotics.”
Following his arrest, Autry was booked into the Cumberland County Jail. Deputies confirmed that he is currently being held on a $675,000 secured bond.
Investigative Context
The seizure of such a wide variety of substances, including fentanyl and methamphetamine, points to the ongoing challenge law enforcement faces regarding poly-drug distribution networks in the region. The specific trafficking charges suggest authorities believe the residence was acting as a significant supply point rather than a location for personal use. It is important to note that all individuals, including Mr. Autry, are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.