Three arrested in Columbus County on drug, human trafficking, and prostitution charges

COLUMBUS COUNTY, NC (WWAY) — The Columbus County Sheriff’s Office has arrested three people in connection with a drug and human trafficking investigation, resulting in a range of felony charges including methamphetamine possession, conspiracy to distribute cocaine, and profiting from prostitution.

Julie Mae Aguilar, 42, of Daytona Beach, Florida, faces multiple felony charges including possession with intent to sell and deliver cocaine, conspiracy to commit robbery with a dangerous weapon, and promoting prostitution. Aguilar is also accused of possessing a weapon while in custody. Bond for her charges exceeds $110,000.

Also arrested was Hector Luis Mercado, 31, of Conway, South Carolina. Mercado is charged with felony possession of methamphetamine, human trafficking involving an adult victim, conspiracy to distribute cocaine, and maintaining a dwelling for the sale of controlled substances. His bond is set at $130,000.

A third suspect, 31-year-old Carlie Alexis Turner, also of Conway, faces felony charges similar to the other two suspects, including conspiracy to sell and deliver cocaine, promoting prostitution, and maintaining a location for controlled substances. She is being held on a $100,000 bond.

According to warrants, the trio is also accused of conspiring to rob two detectives.

Authorities have not released additional details about the arrests.