Executive Summary
- Homeland Security Investigations and Columbus County deputies intercepted drug parcels in Riegelwood.
- Authorities seized 62 pounds of marijuana, along with psilocybin mushrooms and resin products.
- One individual faces multiple felony trafficking and possession charges following the operation.
COLUMBUS COUNTY, N.C. — A collaborative operation between federal agents and local law enforcement resulted in a significant narcotics seizure and the arrest of one individual in Riegelwood, according to the Columbus County Sheriff’s Office. The investigation, which began in January, focused on the interception of parcels containing controlled substances.
Authorities state that Homeland Security Investigations initially contacted the Columbus County Sheriff’s Office Special Operations Division Vice-Narcotics Unit regarding suspicious packages addressed to locations in Riegelwood. Following this intelligence, investigators launched an inquiry that culminated in the execution of a search warrant and the subsequent arrest.
During the operation, deputies seized approximately 62 pounds of marijuana, two ounces of psilocybin mushrooms, 10 ounces of marijuana resin wax, and seven ounces of marijuana live resin vape pens. The sheriff’s office reported that the substantial quantity of narcotics recovered indicates a significant disruption to local distribution efforts.
The defendant was taken into custody and booked at the Columbus County Detention Center. Charges filed against the individual include six counts of felony trafficking in marijuana, two counts of felony maintaining a place for controlled substances, and felony littering of hazardous waste. Additional charges include multiple counts of possession with intent to manufacture, sell, or deliver marijuana and Schedule I and VI controlled substances, alongside misdemeanor possession of drug paraphernalia.
Investigative Outlook
This case underscores the increasing reliance on inter-agency cooperation to track the flow of narcotics through mail and parcel services. By leveraging federal intelligence from Homeland Security alongside local operational resources, law enforcement agencies aim to intercept trafficking operations before substances reach the street level. As the legal process commences, it is important to note that all individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
