Proactive patrol in Clarendon leads to drug arrest

CLARENDON, NC (WWAY) — A proactive patrol by the Columbus County Sheriff’s Office in an area flagged for suspected drug activity resulted in an arrest earlier this month.

According to officials, members of the Vice Narcotics Unit were conducting enforcement efforts on March 20 in response to recent citizen complaints when they encountered Jesse Lee Reaves. Deputies determined Reaves had an outstanding warrant for failure to appear on a misdemeanor charge.

During the encounter, detectives also reported finding cocaine and drug paraphernalia in his possession.

Reaves was charged with felony possession of cocaine, possession of drug paraphernalia, and failure to appear on a misdemeanor. He was taken into custody and given an $11,500 secured bond.

Sheriff Bill Rogers said the arrest reflects the department’s focus on areas identified by the community.

“Our Vice Narcotics Unit is continuing to focus on areas where citizens have voiced concerns,” Rogers said. “This arrest is another example of how proactive patrol and community information work hand-in-hand to address criminal activity.”

The sheriff’s office is encouraging residents to continue reporting suspicious activity, noting that community input plays a key role in guiding enforcement efforts.