Multiple county investigation leads to drug trafficking arrest
COLUMBUS COUNTY, NC (WWAY) — In October, the Columbus County Sheriff’s Office Special Operations Division in coordination with the New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office concluded a six-month long investigation into the trafficking and distribution of illegal controlled substances.
The investigation started in Columbus County after citizen complaints and reports connected to criminal activity involving narcotics.
During the investigation, detectives found the suspect’s connection to a larger narcotics distribution network operating between both Columbus and New Hanover Counties.
Investigators identified 30-year-old Cortez Smith as a suspect for allegedly trafficking a large quantity of illegal narcotics including crystal methamphetamine.
Smith is being charged with multiple felonies and is currently being held at the New Hanover County Detention Facility.
Columbus County Sheriff’s Office Charges:
- 4 Felony Counts – Trafficking in Methamphetamine
- 1 Felony Count – Manufacture Methamphetamine
- 1 Felony Count – PWIMSD Methamphetamine
- 1 Felony Count – M/S/D/P CS W/N 1000FT of a Park
- 1 Misdemeanor Count – Possess Drug Paraphernalia
New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office Charges:
- 3 Felony Counts – Trafficking in Methamphetamine
- 1 Felony Count – Manufacture Methamphetamine
- 1 Felony Count – PWIMSD Methamphetamine
- 1 Felony Count – Maintain Veh/Dwell/Place CS (F)
- 1 Misdemeanor Count – Possess Marijuana Up to ½ OZ
- 1 Misdemeanor Count – Possess Marij Paraphernalia
