Checkpoints led to drug charges in two separate cases Monday.
James Walter Dicicco, 57, was released on a $50,000 secured bond after he was charged with trafficking in cocaine, possession with intent to manufacture, sell and deliver marijuana, possession of opiates, stolen goods, and maintaining a vehicle for drug activities. His address was listed as 813 Village St., Bladenboro on detention center records.
Larry James Lewis III, 25, was charged with possession with intent to manufacture, sell and deliver marijuana, possession of narcotics, paraphernalia, misdemeanor possession of marijuana, and carrying a concealed weapon. His bond was set at $5,000 unsecured. Lewis gave his address as 70 Valley Acres Dr., Whiteville.
Deputies were operating a checkpoint at Old Lumberton and Paul Willoughby roads when Dicicco approached. Deputy J. Norris noticed an open beer can in the cupholder of his silover Dodge truck, the report said. A further search of the vehicle turned up crack and powder cocaine, methamphetamine, marijuana, and suboxone strips. Deputies also found a stolen wallet near Dicicco, the report said.
At another checkpoint, this time on Jefferson Steet in Whiteville, Lewis was stopped after he approached the deputies then made a U-turn, heading back into town. He eventually stopped in front of a dentist’s office on Spivey Drive.
Deputy W. Holden noted in the report that Lewis appeared nervous when he was approached. When Lewis was patted down, Holden discovered a .22 handgun on his person. Lewis also had a black backpack that allegedly contained marijuana, pills, paraphernalia, and digital scales.
