NARCOTICS TRAFFIC STOP LEADS TO COCAINE AND MDMA ARREST

WHITEVILLE, N.C. – A proactive narcotics operation in Whiteville resulted in the arrest of a local man after detectives with the Columbus County Sheriff’s Office Special Operations Vice/Narcotics Unit conducted a traffic stop that uncovered cocaine, MDMA and evidence of attempted destruction of drugs.

According to the Sheriff’s Office, detectives were conducting surveillance near Martin Luther King Avenue on July 14 when they observed activity consistent with suspected criminal conduct. Based on those observations, a traffic stop was initiated.

As detectives approached the vehicle, they reported detecting an odor associated with illegal narcotics. A passenger, identified as Kenneth Burgess Jr., was seen making movements toward the center console and beneath his seat.

Detectives established probable cause to search the vehicle. During the search, they located a torn plastic bag containing a white powdery substance. Investigators say the substance had been emptied into a cup of liquid inside the console in what appeared to be an attempt to destroy evidence. Burgess was detained while the investigation continued.

A subsequent search of Burgess’ person resulted in the discovery of additional controlled substances identified as MDMA, commonly known as ecstasy.

Burgess was arrested without incident and transported to the Columbus County Law Enforcement Center. He was charged with:

– Felony Possession of Cocaine – Felony Possession of a Schedule I Controlled Substance – Felony Altering, Stealing or Destroying Criminal Evidence – Misdemeanor Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

Bond was set at $100,000 secured.

Sheriff W.A. Rogers said the agency’s Special Operations detectives remain committed to proactively identifying and addressing illegal drug activity throughout Columbus County. He encouraged residents to report suspicious activity to the Sheriff’s Office or through the agency’s mobile app.

All individuals listed are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.
Charges and case statuses may change as investigations and court proceedings continue.