Three men were jailed and a quantity of illegal drugs seized after a raid on a Ward Street home today (April 30).
Whiteville Police Chief Paul Rockenbach said his department and the sheriff’s office executed a search warrant on 429 Ward Street after an investigation. Two handguns, MDMA (Ecstasy), marijuana and drug paraphernalia were confiscated, according to a press release.
Shawn Murchison, 38, was charged with maintaining ad welling for drug activities, possession with intent to sell and deliver marijuana and MDMA, two counts each of possession with intent to sell or deliver drugs within 1,000 feet of a school and a park, and possession of a firearm by a felon.
Shyreak Belton, 34 was arrested on outstanding warrants for possession with intent to sell or deliver marijuana, paraphernalia, maintaining a dwelling for drug activities, and possession with intent to sell drugs within 1,000 feet of a school. His bond was set at $2,500.
Derrick Oneal Spaulding, 28, was charged with failure to appear on a misdemeanor, resist, obstruct or delay an officer, and paraphernalia. His bond was set at $2,000. He was wanted for failing to appear on charges of second degree trespassing and misdemeanor larceny.
Additional booking information about the three suspects was not immediately available.
Rockenbach said federal assistance has allowed WPD to increase and expand its narcotics investigations.
“Through a grant awarded by the U.S. Dept. of Justice,” Rockenbach said in a news release, “the department has been able to expand its focus by developing dedicated narcotics officers within our Criminal Investigation Division. This investment has strengthened our ability to proactively address drug-related activity and enhance public safety throughout the City of Whiteville.”
Rockenbach thanked the sheriff’s office for its assistance in the case.
“This operation highlights the continued importance of strong partnerships and targeted enforcement efforts in our community,” he said.
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