Three suspects were jailed Monday after a raid in the Green Acres community near Tabor City.
The sheriff’s office said the “extensive narcotics investigation” took place over several months.
“During the investigation, authorities identified individuals believed to be involved in the distribution of illegal narcotics in Tabor City, surrounding communities, and portions of South Carolina,” the sheriff’s office said in a press release.
Investigators obtained a search warrant for 111 Pine Circle Road, and members of the Special Operations Team, Heavy Enforcement Action Team, SWAT and Criminal Investigations raided the location Monday.
Donald Lee Vereen, 60, of 111 Pine Circle, was charged with two counts each of trafficking in cocaine and opiates; manufacturing cocaine; five counts of possession with intent to manufacture, sell and deliver cocaine; sale of opiates; maintaining a place for drug activities, and drug paraphernalia. His bond was set at $100,000.
Jesmaine Lamont Strickland, 44, of Loris, S.C., was taken into custody on indictments for reckless driving, driving without a license, and simple possession of marijuana. He was also charged with fleeing to elude arrest, according to Detention Center Records. His bond was set at $35,000.
Audrianna Watson, 28, was also taken into custody on two counts of misdemeanor failure to appear. Her bond was set at $3,000. Watson has addresses of Shug Norris Road and Dothan Road, Tabor City.
“Our Vice/Narcotics Investigators dedicated countless hours to surveillance, intelligence gathering, and undercover operations to ensure this investigation was handled thoroughly and safely,” Sheriff Rogers said. “This case is a strong example of how teamwork, shared resources, and persistent investigative work can directly impact the safety of our communities. We remain committed to targeting those who choose to bring illegal narcotics into Columbus County.”
The Columbus County Sheriff’s Office encourages residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious or criminal activity. Anonymous tips can be submitted through the Submit-A-Tip feature at:
https://columbussheriff.com/submit-a-tip .
