Leland man held on $4.5 million in bonds following fentanyl trafficking investigation
NEW HANOVER COUNTY, NC (WWAY) — A Leland man is facing 23 criminal charges following a months-long fentanyl trafficking investigation involving three sheriff’s offices in southeastern North Carolina.
According to the New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office, detectives arrested Brian Jackie Harper on Oct. 15 following an investigation into fentanyl distribution throughout the region.
The investigation involved the New Hanover, Brunswick and Carteret county sheriff’s offices.
Authorities say Harper was found with approximately 11 grams of fentanyl and 3.5 grams of crack cocaine when he was arrested in New Hanover County.
During the arrest, investigators say Harper attempted to assault detectives before being subdued and taken into custody.
Additional drugs discovered during search
Following the arrest, Brunswick County detectives searched Harper’s residence and reported finding additional illegal drugs and materials associated with drug distribution.
According to the sheriff’s office, investigators recovered approximately 49 grams of fentanyl and 7.5 grams of crack cocaine, along with materials commonly used to weigh and package drugs for distribution.
In total, authorities reported seizing approximately 60 grams of fentanyl and 11 grams of crack cocaine during the investigation.
Harper faces 23 criminal charges
The New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office charged Harper with 16 offenses, including trafficking fentanyl and assault with a deadly weapon on a law enforcement officer.
The Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office filed seven additional charges, including trafficking fentanyl, possession with intent to sell cocaine and manufacturing illegal drugs.
Harper faces a total of 23 criminal charges between the two counties.
He is being held at the New Hanover County Detention Facility under a $1.5 million bond for the New Hanover County charges and an additional $3 million bond for the Brunswick County charges.
The combined bonds total $4.5 million.
Multi-agency investigation
The New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office says the investigation demonstrates the importance of cooperation between law enforcement agencies in combating illegal drug distribution throughout southeastern North Carolina.
Authorities say they remain committed to working together to disrupt drug trafficking operations and protect local communities.
