Deputies from the Sampson County Sheriff’s Office arrested four Sampson County residents Friday on multiple charges involving a previous drug bust.
According to reports, the arrests stem from results of tests conducted by the State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) on a suspected meth product that was seized during a previous warrantless search.
“The test returned a positive result for methamphetamines and as a result the additional charges were taken out on the individuals involved,” said Lt. Marcus Smith.
The individuals arrested included Amber N. Smith, 22, of 50 Chicken Lane, Salemburg; William D. Williford, 27, of 1560 Juniper Road, Newton Grove; Marcus W. Lee, 28, of 1560 Juniper Lane, Newton Grove; and Brittany L. Sutton, 22, of 71 East Debbie St., Dunn.
All were arrested on multiple felony charges of trafficking methamphetamine and possession with the intent to manufacture, sell, and deliver. The amount of drugs seized included 499 grams of methamphetamine and 127 grams of Phencyclidine, also know as PCP or angel dust.
Previously, Amber Smith, Williford, Lee and Sutton were arrested in March following a search which resulted in the discovery of meth manufacturing materials and meth waste on a Juniper Road home. During that time, they faced similar charges of manufacturing methamphetamine, five counts of possession of methamphetamine precursor chemicals with the intent to manufacture, possession of drug paraphernalia and storage of hazardous waste without a permit.
In March, Lee was also charged with possession of less than half an ounce of marijuana and possession of marijuana paraphernalia. Sutton was also served with an outstanding warrant out of Johnston County for a domestic violence protection order violation. He was later issued a District Court date of April 27 in Smithfield.
During the March incident, Sampson County Sheriff’s deputies were assisted by state agents. When they arrived at the residence, Williford came to the door with a flashlight, which revealed two baggies of methamphetamine. Officers also smelled a strong odor. A barn nearby contained manufacturing materials for meth. Later, the SBI was contacted to dismantle the lab.
Next, a $150,000 bond and a court date in late March was set for the individuals.
After the SBI test, the individuals were recently confined in the Sampson County Detention Center with an additional $100,000 bond for each. A trial date of July 17 is scheduled for the individuals.