ALBEMARLE — A routine traffic stop in Albemarle turned into a major drug bust after the Stanly County Sheriff’s Office seized methamphetamine, fentanyl, prescription pills, and a firearm.
The Seizure
According to the Sheriff’s Office, the Aug. 18 drug bust was conducted by the Special Operations Group with assistance from the Narcotics Unit. Deputies reported finding:
- 59 grams of methamphetamine
- 10 grams of fentanyl
- Multiple prescription medications not prescribed to the suspects
- A firearm
Arrested Suspects
The driver, Brandy Sue Tucker, and passenger, Darren Lynn Moore Jr., were arrested on multiple felony drug and firearm charges.
In a statement, the Stanly County Sheriff’s Office said the successful operation demonstrates their ongoing commitment to combating drug trafficking and protecting community safety.
Charges Against Tucker
Tucker faces a lengthy list of charges, including:
- Trafficking methamphetamine
- Conspiring to deliver methamphetamine
- Conspiring to traffic heroin and opium
- Possession with intent to manufacture, sell, or deliver methamphetamine and other controlled substances
- Maintaining a vehicle or dwelling for controlled substances
- Possession of drug paraphernalia
- Possession of a firearm by a felon
- Parole violation
Her bond was set at $100,000 for the maintaining a dwelling charge and an additional $100,000 for conspiracy to traffic heroin and opium.
Charges Against Moore
Moore faces similar felony charges, including:
- Trafficking methamphetamine
- Trafficking heroin and opium
- Conspiring to deliver methamphetamine
- Conspiring to traffic heroin and opium
- Possession with intent to manufacture, sell, or deliver methamphetamine and other controlled substances
- Maintaining a vehicle or dwelling for controlled substances
- Possession of drug paraphernalia
- Possession of a firearm by a felon
- Parole violation
According to reports, his bond was also set at $100,000 for maintaining a dwelling and another $100,000 for heroin trafficking.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities stated the case remains under investigation as part of the county’s broader strategy to curb drug distribution and related crimes.
Local law enforcement has reported an uptick in methamphetamine and fentanyl-related arrests across Stanly County in recent months. Officials warn that the rise in trafficking cases underscores the growing dangers posed by synthetic opioids and methamphetamine, which continue to plague communities across North Carolina.
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