Asheville, NC – The Asheville Police Department (APD) arrested four people in west Asheville on Wednesday, August 27, after executing a search warrant that uncovered drugs, firearms, cash, and a fentanyl press.
The search stemmed from a Washington County Sheriff’s Office (Virginia) drug investigation that led APD to a residence on Ascension Drive in Asheville, according to an official press release.
Items Seized During Search
Inside the home, officers discovered:
- $7,611 in cash
- Four handguns, including one reported stolen
- 202 grams of marijuana
- A fentanyl press used in drug manufacturing
Three individuals inside the home were taken into custody. A juvenile found at the residence was temporarily detained but later released to their mother.
Arrests and Charges
Before executing the warrant, police stopped a car leaving the residence and arrested a passenger found with 16.6 grams of fentanyl. Here are the details –
Deonte Sincere Gardner, 25
- Felony trafficking opium or heroin (two counts)
- Felony possession with intent to manufacture, sell, or deliver Schedule II
- Felony possession Schedule II
- Felony probation violation
Gardner was booked into the Buncombe County Detention Facility under a $55,000 bond (or $5,500 to a bondsman).
Lawrence Sincere Gardner, 22
- Felony maintain vehicle/dwelling/place for controlled substance
Booked into Buncombe County Detention Facility under a $50,000 secured bond (or $5,000 to a bondsman).
Rasheed Jahaad Grant, 23
- Felony maintaining a vehicle/dwelling/place for controlled substance
- Felony possession of a firearm by a felon
- Felony possession of a stolen firearm
Grant is being held under a $250,000 bond (or $25,000 to a bondsman).
Damion Keire Smith Jr., 22
- Felony possession with intent to manufacture, sell, or deliver marijuana
Smith was booked under a $5,000 secured bond (or $500 to a bondsman).
Ongoing Investigation
The APD confirmed the investigation remains ongoing, and additional charges may be filed. Authorities thanked the Washington County Sheriff’s Office for their assistance in the case.
Community Impact of Fentanyl and Firearms
Law enforcement officials continue to stress the dangers posed by fentanyl, a synthetic opioid far stronger than heroin, often linked to overdose deaths across the nation. The discovery of a fentanyl press highlights concerns about large-scale drug production and distribution in local communities.
The recovery of stolen firearms further raises concerns about the link between drug trafficking and violent crime. Police emphasize that removing such weapons and narcotics from circulation is critical to community safety.
What do you think are the most effective steps communities can take to combat fentanyl and illegal firearms? Share your views in the comments below.
