Greenville, NC — A routine observation by detectives with the Pitt County Sheriff’s Office (PCSO) escalated into a significant drug-related arrest on November 12, after investigators stopped two vehicles in Greenville and discovered narcotics tied to suspected trafficking activity.
Three individuals are now behind bars and facing a range of serious charges as the investigation continues.
Detectives Observe Suspicious Activity Near Stantonsburg Road
According to PCSO officials, detectives were conducting surveillance when they noticed behavior “consistent with narcotics sales” near the intersection of Stantonsburg Road and B’s Barbeque Road. The actions of several individuals raised enough reasonable suspicion for deputies to initiate traffic stops on two vehicles connected to the activity.
Inside the first vehicle, deputies found James C. Taylor Jr., 33, of Fountain.
The second vehicle was occupied by James W. Johnson Jr., 67, of Greenville, and Rakia L. Whitley, 35, also of Greenville.
Shortly after the stops were made, detectives seized multiple controlled substances and drug-related items, leading to the immediate arrest of all three suspects.
Narcotics Recovered; Multiple Charges Filed
Authorities did not specify the exact quantity of drugs recovered but confirmed that the seizure included cocaine and other controlled substances. Investigators also collected paraphernalia and evidence tied to the distribution and sale of illegal drugs.
As per the reports, each suspect now faces a different slate of charges based on their alleged involvement:
Charges for James C. Taylor Jr., 33 (Fountain)
- Trafficking Cocaine (2 counts)
- Sell Cocaine
- PWISD Marijuana (Possession With Intent to Sell or Deliver)
- Maintaining a Vehicle or Dwelling for Controlled Substance
- Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
Taylor is being held on a $300,000 secured bond.
Charges for James W. Johnson Jr., 67 (Greenville)
- Felony Conspiracy
- Driving While License Revoked – Not Impaired
- Probation Violation
Johnson remains jailed under a $16,000 secured bond.
Charges for Rakia L. Whitley, 35 (Greenville)
- Possession of Cocaine
- Felony Conspiracy
- Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
- Prostitution
Whitley is currently held under a $50,000 secured bond.
PCSO Confirms Investigation Is Ongoing
The Pitt County Sheriff’s Office emphasized that this case remains an active investigation, with detectives exploring whether the suspects were part of a larger distribution network or working independently. Additional charges or further arrests may follow as investigators continue reviewing evidence.
Law enforcement officials noted that intersections like Stantonsburg Rd. and B’s Barbeque Rd. are frequently monitored due to past narcotics-related activity, making the deputies’ vigilance key to Thursday’s successful intervention.
Sheriff’s Office Highlights Importance of Proactive Policing
PCSO says incidents like this highlight the importance of detectives staying alert to abnormal behavior and responding quickly to potential illegal drug activity. Officers credit the arrests to proactive surveillance and coordinated teamwork across specialized units.
Residents in Greenville and Pitt County have voiced increasing concern about local drug-related crime, making the sheriff’s office’s recent enforcement efforts especially notable. Officials say they will continue prioritizing strategies that target dealers and traffickers while working to reduce drug availability in the community.
Do these arrests make you feel safer? Worried about drug activity in your area?
Share your thoughts, experiences, or questions in the comments below — let’s talk about what’s happening in our neighborhoods.
