A stop for a speeding ticket led to the arrest of an alleged drug trafficker and shutting down a narcotics operation, Sheriff Bill Rogers said.
Zaki Rashad Butler, 44, of 102 Pine Circle Road, Tabor City, is being held under $500,000 secured bond. He is charged with trafficking in opiates, possession with intent to manufacture, sell and deliver marijuana, maintaining a dwelling for drug activities, and possession of paraphernalia.
The sheriff’s office said in a press release that deputies with the Heavy Enforcement Action Team (HEAT) were patrolling N.C. 904 Nov. 26 when they noticed a truck leaving a residence with a history of suspected drug activity.
“The vehicle, which exhibited an unusually loud exhaust and was observed speeding, was stopped by deputies after it reached 73 MPH in a 55 MPH zone,” the press release said.
The driver consented to a search of the vehicle, and while no drugs were found, a passenger in the truck allegedly had heroin, crack and powdered cocaine in his possession. Deputies also noticed the passenger discarding a “suspicious item” during the stop, the release said.
The passenger’s name was not released by the sheriff’s office. He was held under $25,000 secured bond on charges of narcotics possession,
Under questioning, the suspect provided information that linked the narcotics to Butler.
On Nov. 27, deputies, Narcotics Detectives and the Special Operations Division executed a search warrant on Butler’s home. The release said Butler was found in a back bedroom.
Narcotics were found in the bedroom, kitchen and elsewhere, the release said.
“This operation is a testament to the dedication of Columbus County deputies in addressing illegal drug activity and ensuring the safety of our communities,” Rogers said in the ress release. “The hard work and commitment of our deputies are influential in keeping drugs off our streets and holding those responsible accountable. Their efforts make Columbus County a safer place for everyone.”
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