Multi-state pursuit leads to drug arrest in Columbus County investigation
TABOR CITY, NC (WWAY) — A traffic stop in Columbus County led to a multi-state pursuit and the arrest of a North Carolina man on multiple drug and fleeing charges, according to the Columbus County Sheriff’s Office.
The incident happened July 20 as detectives with the Sheriff’s Office Special Operations Vice/Narcotics Division conducted proactive patrols near Carolina Road and Fair Bluff Road in response to citizen complaints about suspected activity in the area.
According to investigators, detectives attempted to stop a gray Hyundai Sonata after the driver allegedly failed to stop at the intersection of 8th Street and Fair Bluff Road. Authorities said the driver did not stop, leading deputies on a pursuit into South Carolina.
The chase reached speeds of more than 90 mph before ending in the Green Sea community, where detectives arrested the driver, identified as O’Rico Wells.
During the investigation, detectives said they recovered marijuana and a white powdery substance from inside the vehicle.
Wells was initially taken to the J. Reuben Long Detention Center in South Carolina on a fugitive warrant before being returned to Columbus County the following day.
He faces several charges, including felony fleeing to elude arrest, possession with intent to sell or deliver marijuana, and possession with intent to sell or deliver a Schedule II controlled substance, according to the sheriff’s office.
The Columbus County Sheriff’s Office said the investigation stemmed from citizen complaints and emphasized the importance of residents reporting suspicious activity to law enforcement.
