Four arrested after suspected drone drug smuggling attempt at Columbus County prison
COLUMBUS COUNTY, NC (WWAY) — A citizen’s report of suspicious activity near Columbus Correctional Institution led investigators to uncover what authorities say was a planned drone operation to smuggle narcotics into the prison, resulting in the arrest of four people and the seizure of suspected drugs and a drone.
The Columbus County Sheriff’s Office announced the results of the investigation Monday. The investigation began June 2, when deputies with the Patrol Division responded to the Harrelsonville Road area after receiving a report of multiple individuals trespassing near the correctional facility. The caller provided descriptions of the individuals and a vehicle believed to be connected to the incident.
Deputies located a vehicle matching the description near Columbus Correctional Institution and conducted an investigative stop. The driver was identified as Jadynn Richardson, and the passengers were identified as Xavien Clay, Jonathan Hinnant and Javonte Chatman.
Members of the Columbus County Sheriff’s Office Special Operations Vice/Narcotics Unit responded to assist with the investigation. During a search of the vehicle, deputies seized approximately 38.69 grams of suspected THC wax or resin, 2 grams of marijuana, 17.44 grams of suspected K2 paper and 6.32 grams of suspected sublingual film.
Investigators also recovered a drone from inside the vehicle. According to the Sheriff’s Office, the suspected THC wax or resin was concealed inside a glove that investigators believe had been prepared for smuggling contraband into the correctional facility.
As the investigation continued, Vice/Narcotics detectives reviewed monitored telephone calls involving inmates housed at Columbus Correctional Institution. According to investigators, the conversations referenced plans to use a drone to deliver narcotics into the prison and included discussions about the types and quantities of substances allegedly being delivered.
Richardson, Clay, Hinnant and Chatman were all taken into custody.
Richardson faces multiple charges, including trafficking, possession with intent to manufacture, sell or deliver controlled substances, manufacturing controlled substances, conspiracy charges, maintaining a vehicle for controlled substances and possession of drug paraphernalia. He received a $275,000 secured bond.
Clay and Hinnant each face multiple charges, including trafficking, possession with intent to manufacture, sell or deliver controlled substances, manufacturing controlled substances, conspiracy charges and possession of drug paraphernalia. Each received a $250,000 secured bond.
Chatman also faces multiple trafficking, drug manufacturing and conspiracy charges, along with drug paraphernalia charges. According to the Sheriff’s Office, he was held without bond because he was already out on bond at the time of his arrest.
Sheriff’s officials said the investigation demonstrates the importance of citizens promptly reporting suspicious activity and highlights the cooperation between the Patrol Division and the Special Operations Vice/Narcotics Unit. Officials said the agency remains committed to disrupting illegal drug activity and preventing narcotics and other contraband from entering correctional facilities.
All suspected controlled substances recovered during the investigation were submitted to the Columbus County Sheriff’s Office Evidence Division for processing, testing and secure storage in accordance with agency policy.
The investigation remains ongoing.
