TABOR CITY — A months‑long investigation into illegal narcotics and firearms distribution in the Tabor City area led to multiple arrests and major seizures this week, according to the Columbus County Sheriff’s Office.
On April 14, the Sheriff’s Office Special Operations Division Vice/Narcotics Unit, working with the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation and the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Task Force, executed a targeted operation that resulted in the seizure of approximately one kilogram of crystal methamphetamine, 11 firearms, and other controlled substances and evidence.
The operation was supported by the Sheriff’s Office Heavy Enforcement Action Team (H.E.A.T.), SWAT, and the Criminal Investigations Division (CID).
Arrests and Charges
William Antwan Gaskins, 323 West 4th Street, Tabor City Charged with 12 counts of trafficking methamphetamine, 2 counts of trafficking opium/heroin, multiple counts of possession with intent to manufacture, sell, and deliver controlled substances including fentanyl, cocaine, and marijuana, and maintaining a dwelling for controlled substances. Additional charges include possession of stolen firearms, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, altering serial numbers, and possession of a weapon of mass destruction. Bond: $1,300,000 secured — Incarcerated at Columbus County Detention Center
Douglas Wilson Branton, 323 West 4th Street, Tabor City Charged with possession of fentanyl, possession of cocaine, maintaining a dwelling for controlled substances, and possession of drug paraphernalia. Bond: $50,000 secured — Incarcerated at Columbus County Detention Center
Terrance James Thomas, Shug Norris Road, Tabor City Charged with felony littering of hazardous waste and resisting a public officer. Bond: $10,000 secured — Incarcerated at Columbus County Detention Center
Sheriff Bill Rogers praised the work of investigators and partner agencies, saying the arrests “highlight the strength of interagency collaboration and demonstrate how the effective use of shared resources leads to safer communities and successful outcomes.”
Residents are encouraged to report suspicious activity through the Submit‑A‑Tip feature at columbussheriff.com/submit‑a‑tip (columbussheriff.com in Bing).
All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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