‘Operation Patriot’ arrests 150+ in areas including New Hanover Co.

RALEIGH, NC (WWAY) — Law enforcement officers arrested 153 people during a multi-agency operation named “Operation Patriot” which covered four counties including New Hanover County.

The operation happened during the period March 17-19 in Cumberland, Onslow, Wayne and New Hanover counties. Officials say the goal was to reduce crime in areas where service members and their families live.

A spokesperson with the North Carolina Department of Public safety says officers served 315 outstanding warrants during the operation and conducted 238 searches of probationers and/or their residences. They say four firearms were seized along with varying amounts of heroin, cocaine and marijuana and $4,200 in currency.

In New Hanover County, officials say 45 arrests were made, with 106 warrants served.

More than 230 officers participated in the operation over the course of three days. Local agencies involved included the New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office and Wilmington Police Department.