Proactive patrol leads to drug, firearm charges in Columbus County

COLUMBUS COUNTY, NC (WWAY) — Two separate proactive patrol encounters by the Columbus County Sheriff’s Office Patrol Division led to drug seizures, a firearm recovery, and multiple arrests in late May, according to authorities.

Both incidents involved Bravo Squad deputies conducting routine patrols and traffic enforcement across Columbus County.

On May 23, 2026, a deputy conducting a security check at the Sun-Do in the Boardman community located a suspicious vehicle with a Vermont plate that did not return registration records. The driver, Damien Kelly Thompson, was found to have an outstanding warrant and was taken into custody.

During an inventory of the vehicle prior to towing, deputies reported discovering multiple suspected controlled substances, drug paraphernalia, and an open container of alcohol. A dog inside the vehicle was turned over to Animal Control. Thompson was later served additional warrants related to the seized items.

Two days later, on May 25, deputies assisted with a traffic stop after a vehicle failed to signal while turning. Officers reported detecting the odor of marijuana and observed suspicious movements from the driver, later identified as Charleston Shipman.

A search of Shipman and the vehicle allegedly uncovered a concealed handgun, marijuana, cash, scales, and additional drug paraphernalia. Shipman, a convicted felon, was arrested and charged with multiple offenses, including firearm and drug-related violations. He received a $150,000 secured bond.

Sheriff Bill Rogers commended the Patrol Division for their work, saying the cases highlight the importance of routine patrols and attention to detail in keeping dangerous items off the streets.