Buncombe County, NC – A months-long investigation into alleged drug trafficking activity in Buncombe County has led to the arrest of two individuals and the seizure of large quantities of illegal narcotics, drug paraphernalia, and an illegally possessed firearm, according to the Buncombe County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO).
Authorities say the operation culminated in the execution of a search warrant on December 12, exposing what investigators described as trafficking-level amounts of drugs at a residence in the Emma community.
Months-Long Investigation Leads to Search Warrant
The Buncombe County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that deputies executed a search warrant at 62 Bingham Road following an extensive investigation into a suspected drug trafficking organization operating from the property.
Investigators said the probe spanned several months and focused on identifying the distribution of illegal narcotics within the community. Once sufficient evidence was gathered, deputies moved forward with the warrant, leading to significant seizures and multiple felony charges.
Large Quantities of Illegal Drugs Seized
During the search, deputies recovered a wide range of illegal substances, many in amounts that meet or exceed state trafficking thresholds. According to the sheriff’s office, the following items were seized:
- Fentanyl – 41.9 grams
- Methamphetamine – 49.8 grams
- Cocaine – 2.3 grams
- MDMA – 2.3 grams
- Amphetamines – 2.0 grams
- Oxycodone – 14 dosage units
- Suboxone – 19 dosage units
- Numerous drug paraphernalia items
- 12-gauge shotgun
Authorities noted that the firearm was illegally possessed, adding to the seriousness of the charges filed in the case.
Anthony Julian Severino Faces Multiple Felony Charges
One of the suspects arrested was Anthony Julian Severino, 50, who now faces an extensive list of felony and misdemeanor charges stemming from the search.
According to the Buncombe County Sheriff’s Office, Severino has been charged with:
- Trafficking in opium/heroin (fentanyl) by possession (Level III)
- Trafficking in opium/heroin (fentanyl) by manufacturing (Level III)
- Trafficking in methamphetamine by possession (Level I)
- Trafficking in methamphetamine by manufacturing (Level I)
- Maintaining a vehicle or dwelling for controlled substances
- Possession of marijuana
- Possession of drug paraphernalia
- PWIMSD cocaine
- PWIMSD Schedule III
- PWIMSD MDMA
- Possession of a firearm by a felon
Officials confirmed that Severino is being held under a $110,000 secured bond, according to the Buncombe County online inmate list.
Jamie Leigh Paradis Also Charged in Connection to Drug Operation
The second suspect, Jamie Leigh Paradis, 39, was also arrested and charged with multiple drug-related offenses in connection with the investigation.
The sheriff’s office stated that Paradis faces the following charges:
- Trafficking in opium/heroin (fentanyl) by possession (Level III)
- Trafficking in opium/heroin (fentanyl) by manufacturing (Level III)
- Trafficking in methamphetamine by possession (Level I)
- Trafficking in methamphetamine by manufacturing (Level I)
- Maintaining a vehicle or dwelling for controlled substances
- Possession of marijuana
- Possession of drug paraphernalia
- PWIMSD cocaine
- PWIMSD Schedule III
- PWIMSD MDMA
According to jail records, Paradis is being held under a $400,000 bond, significantly higher due to the severity and volume of the charges.
Sheriff’s Office Emphasizes Community Impact
The Buncombe County Sheriff’s Office emphasized that removing large quantities of dangerous drugs—particularly fentanyl and methamphetamine—from circulation is critical to protecting public safety.
Officials noted that fentanyl continues to play a major role in overdose deaths across North Carolina, making investigations like this one a priority for law enforcement. Deputies also stressed that community tips and cooperation often play a vital role in uncovering drug trafficking activity.
Investigation Remains Ongoing
Authorities confirmed that the investigation remains ongoing, and additional charges or arrests are possible as detectives continue reviewing evidence connected to the case. Law enforcement officials are encouraging anyone with information related to drug activity in the area to contact the Buncombe County Sheriff’s Office.
Join the Conversation
What are your thoughts on the ongoing fight against drug trafficking in Buncombe County? Do you believe tougher penalties help curb illegal drug distribution, or should communities focus more on prevention and treatment?
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