Craven County Sheriff Chip Hughes says that citizen complaints and information were a major factor in Operation Freeze Warning, an investigation that ultimately netted 36 arrests on drug and firearms charges.
Over the past several months our deputies have continued to concentrate their efforts on citizen complaints, with an emphasis on those who sell and distribute drugs,” he said. He added that the department has focused its operations on “the most serious issues,” including heroin, fentanyl, methamphetamine and cocaine.
“We have also emphasized the dangers to our county of illegal firearms possession,” he said. “Several of those charged include charges for larceny of firearms, possession of stolen firearms, possession of firearms by convicted felons and carrying concealed weapons.”
Press Release:
Within the past 2 months Investigators with the Beaufort County Sheriff s Office Drug Unit have arrested 20 people involved in the use and distribution of a controlled substance. Their arrest stemmed from Investigators receiving complaints from Crime Stoppers and concerned citizens. Investigators used multiple investigative techniques involving surveillance, traffic stops and undercover purchases.
Darius Blackledge, 21 years of age, of 105 Randolph Road in Washington. Blackledge was charged with Possession with Intent to Sell and Deliver Marijuana, Carrying a Concealed Gun and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.
Messiah Barnes-Lofton, 21 years of age, of 3166 St. Johns Church Road in Washington. Barnes-Lofton was charged with Possession with Intent to Sell and Deliver Marijuana, Carrying a Concealed Gun and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.