25 Arrested in Large-Scale Drug Bust Led by Columbus County Sheriff’s Office
COLUMBUS COUNTY, NC — In a sweeping operation aimed at dismantling a major drug distribution network, the Columbus County Sheriff’s Office has announced the arrest of 25 individuals as part of an extensive months-long investigation into illegal drug trafficking and possession in the region.
The coordinated effort, dubbed “Operation Clean Sweep,” is being hailed as one of the most significant law enforcement actions in the county’s recent history. Sheriff Jody Greene held a press conference Wednesday morning to provide details of the operation, describing it as a major blow to the drug trade plaguing Columbus County and its surrounding communities.
Investigation Overview
According to Sheriff Greene, the operation began in early 2025 following a sharp uptick in overdose cases and community complaints about suspected drug activity. Working closely with the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (SBI), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and multiple local law enforcement agencies, the Columbus County Sheriff’s Office initiated undercover operations, surveillance, and the execution of more than a dozen search warrants over several months.
Authorities targeted individuals suspected of trafficking and distributing methamphetamine, heroin, fentanyl, crack cocaine, and prescription pills. Several weapons, large amounts of cash, and drug paraphernalia were also seized during the arrests.
“This was not just about drugs. These operations are often tied to violent crimes, gang activity, and the slow erosion of public safety. Today, we are sending a message that we are taking back our communities,” Sheriff Greene stated.
Arrests and Charges
The 25 individuals arrested are facing a combination of state and federal charges ranging from simple possession to high-level trafficking and conspiracy. Some suspects were already known to authorities and have prior convictions, while others were newly identified during the operation.
Among those arrested were:
-
Marcus Devonte Williams, 35, charged with trafficking heroin and felony possession of a firearm by a felon.
-
Samantha Lee Harper, 28, charged with maintaining a dwelling for controlled substances and possession with intent to sell methamphetamine.
-
Carlos Jamal Bryant, 41, charged with conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and resisting arrest.
-
Angela Mae Thomas, 49, charged with trafficking crack cocaine and child endangerment after drugs were found in her home within reach of minors.
The sheriff’s department confirmed that more arrests are expected as investigations continue, and additional suspects are currently being sought. Mugshots and names of those arrested were made publicly available on the Sheriff’s Office website to promote transparency and awareness.
Seizures
During the execution of search warrants, law enforcement officers seized:
-
Over 10 pounds of methamphetamine
-
Approximately 2,000 fentanyl pills
-
More than $150,000 in cash
-
Nine firearms, including three stolen handguns and an illegal short-barreled rifle
-
Several vehicles believed to be used in drug distribution
Sheriff Greene emphasized the dangers posed by fentanyl, a synthetic opioid that has been the leading cause of overdose deaths across the country.
“This is a poison we’re dealing with. A few granules of fentanyl can be lethal, and dealers are mixing it with other drugs to maximize profit without regard for human life,” he said.
Community Reaction and Continued Efforts
Residents throughout Columbus County have long voiced concerns about drug-related activity, and many expressed relief following the Sheriff’s announcement.
“It’s been a nightmare. You see the traffic in and out of these houses, the overdoses, the break-ins, the fear. It’s a big relief to see action being taken,” said Janet Wilson, a lifelong resident of Whiteville.
Local leaders also applauded the efforts. County Commissioner Larry Hayes called the operation “a critical step toward restoring peace and safety in our neighborhoods.”
The Sheriff’s Office also acknowledged the importance of continued community involvement. Sheriff Greene encouraged residents to use the anonymous tip line and stressed that addressing drug-related issues requires collaboration between law enforcement, local government, health agencies, and citizens.
Looking Ahead
Operation Clean Sweep is far from over, authorities say. Several cases are being referred to federal prosecutors, and the sheriff’s department plans to ramp up patrols in high-risk areas and launch community outreach programs to help former offenders seek rehabilitation and reintegration.
The Sheriff’s Office is also working with local schools, churches, and nonprofit organizations to address drug abuse prevention and provide resources for those affected by addiction.
“We can’t arrest our way out of the problem,” Greene noted. “But what we can do is disrupt these operations, hold offenders accountable, and work to create a safer, healthier future for our children.”
As Columbus County continues to heal from the impact of illegal drugs, the Sheriff’s Office says it remains committed to its mission: protecting and serving, one operation at a time.
No Responses