Bladen County deputies recover firearms and narcotics, arrest two suspects
BLADEN COUNTY, NC (WWAY) — Two separate investigations by the Bladen County Sheriff’s Office Vice/Narcotics Unit led to the seizure of firearms, methamphetamine and fentanyl, along with the arrests of two convicted felons, according to a news release from Sheriff James A. McVicker.
Investigators conducted the operations on July 15, 2026, resulting in the seizure of three firearms and suspected controlled substances.
Officials said Jonathan Dean Chavis, 34, of Bladenboro, was arrested and charged with:
- Possession of a firearm by a felon
- Possession with intent to manufacture, sell, or deliver a Schedule II controlled substance
- Felony possession of a Schedule II controlled substance
- Maintaining a vehicle, dwelling, or place for the keeping and selling of controlled substances
Joseph Randall Ratcliff, 35, of Bladenboro, was also arrested and charged with:
- Possession of a firearm by a felon
- Possession with intent to manufacture, sell, or deliver a Schedule II controlled substance
- Maintaining a vehicle, dwelling, or place for the keeping and selling of controlled substances
According to the sheriff’s office, Ratcliff is currently on parole for second-degree manslaughter and tampering with physical evidence related to a case in Kentucky.
Both suspects are being held without bond in connection with the firearm possession by felon charges, officials said.
The Bladen County Sheriff’s Office reminded the public that all individuals are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law. Bond decisions are determined by a judicial official under North Carolina law.
Sheriff’s officials said the department remains committed to investigating illegal drug activity in the county and encouraged residents with information about suspected drug sales or criminal activity to contact the Bladen County Sheriff’s Office.
