Rutherford, NC – On Thursday, August 28, the Rutherford County Sheriff’s Office (RCSO) successfully executed a significant drug bust at the Econo Lodge in Forest City, North Carolina, arresting four individuals and seizing a substantial quantity of fentanyl along with other narcotics and cash.
The arrests followed a careful surveillance and intelligence-driven investigation targeting the sale of fentanyl in room 228 of the hotel. WLOS13 reported that the operation was carried out by RCSO’s Aggressive Criminal Enforcement (ACE) Team.
Details of the Drug Bust Operation
Investigators with the ACE Team initiated a follow-up operation after receiving credible information about narcotics activity at the Econo Lodge. Upon arrival, the team made contact with four occupants of room 228 and, with their consent, conducted a search of the room.
The search uncovered multiple items consistent with narcotics trafficking, including a large amount of fentanyl. The suspects Alicia Danielle Early, Jessica Leigh Parker, Deion Linwood Trice, and Karrigan Faye Jenkins were promptly arrested and transported to the Rutherford County Detention Center.
Additional narcotics were discovered on two of the female suspects during a thorough search at the jail, which they attempted to bring inside the facility.
Evidence Seized During the Arrest
- 8.1 grams of white powder (Fentanyl)
- 3.19 grams of white powder (Fentanyl)
- 10.6 grams of white powder (Fentanyl)
- $2,346 in U.S. currency
- Multiple cell phones
- 5 grams of Marijuana
- 3 dosage units of Xanax
- Digital scales
Charges Filed Against the Suspects
The arrested individuals face multiple charges related to drug possession and trafficking. The breakdown is as follows:
- Alicia Danielle Early faces charges including Trafficking Opium or Heroin, Possession of a Controlled Substance in Jail, Maintaining a Vehicle/Dwelling/Place for Controlled Substances, Possession of Marijuana (up to half an ounce), Simple Possession of Schedule IV Controlled Substance, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.
- Jessica Leigh Parker is charged with similar offenses: Trafficking Opium or Heroin, Possession of a Controlled Substance in Jail, Maintaining a Vehicle/Dwelling/Place for Controlled Substances, Possession of Marijuana (up to half an ounce), Simple Possession of Schedule IV Controlled Substance, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.
- Deion Linwood Trice was charged with Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.
- Karrigan Faye Jenkins faces charges for Trafficking Opium or Heroin, Maintaining a Vehicle/Dwelling/Place for Controlled Substances, Simple Possession of Schedule IV Controlled Substance, Simple Possession of Schedule VI Controlled Substance, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.
Community Impact and Law Enforcement Call to Action
This successful drug bust highlights the ongoing issue of fentanyl and controlled substance trafficking in Rutherford County. The RCSO continues to prioritize such investigations to keep the community safe.
“If you have any information regarding drug activity in our area, please contact the RCSO ACE team. Your assistance is vital to our efforts in keeping Rutherford County safe,” urged the Rutherford County Sheriff’s Office.
The use of surveillance, intelligence-gathering, and consented search procedures showcases the dedication and professionalism of the Sheriff’s Office in their fight against the opioid crisis and drug trafficking.
Key Takeaways from the Drug Bust
- Four suspects arrested on multiple drug-related charges
- Significant quantity of fentanyl seized totaling over 21 grams
- Additional narcotics found on suspects at the detention center
- More than $2,300 in cash confiscated
- Operation led by the ACE Team utilizing surveillance and intelligence
Stay Informed and Get Involved
As fentanyl continues to pose a serious threat nationwide, local law enforcement agencies like RCSO are vigilantly working to prevent its distribution. Community members are encouraged to be vigilant and report suspicious activity.
What do you think about this drug bust in Rutherford County? Have you noticed any similar issues in your community? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
