Greenville, NC – Three individuals were taken into custody after a traffic stop led Pitt County Sheriff’s Office detectives to uncover multiple narcotics-related offenses, marking another significant effort in the county’s ongoing fight against illegal drug activity.
Detectives say the arrests stemmed from a Nov. 12 encounter in which behaviour consistent with illegal drug sales prompted law enforcement to initiate a stop on two vehicles travelling near Stantonsburg Road and B’s Barbeque Road. Authorities report that the situation escalated quickly once narcotics and drug-related items were located, resulting in all occupants being charged.
Detectives Identify Suspicious Behaviour Linked to Drug Activity
According to officials, the incident began when PCSO detectives noticed conduct they recognised as typical of street-level narcotics transactions. After establishing reasonable suspicion, deputies conducted traffic stops on both vehicles involved.
The first vehicle was driven by James C. Taylor Jr., 33, of Fountain. The second vehicle contained James W. Johnson Jr., 67, of Greenville, and Rakia L. Whitley, 35, also of Greenville.
Investigators say the subsequent search of the vehicles led to the seizure of drugs and paraphernalia, further confirming concerns about a suspected drug deal in progress.
Charges Filed Against James C. Taylor Jr.
Deputies say Taylor faces some of the most serious charges in the investigation. Following the discovery of narcotics and related materials, he was charged with:
- Trafficking Cocaine (2 counts)
- Sell Cocaine
- PWISD Marijuana
- Maintaining a Vehicle or Dwelling for a Controlled Substance
- Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
He is being held under a $300,000 secured bond, reflecting the severity of the trafficking allegations.
Charges Against James W. Johnson Jr.
The second occupant, Johnson, also faces several legal consequences tied to the incident. His reported charges include:
- Felony Conspiracy
- Driving While License Revoked – Not Impaired
- Probation Violation
Johnson remains in custody under a $16,000 secured bond as the case moves forward.
Charges Filed Against Rakia L. Whitley
The third suspect, Whitley, was charged with offences connected to drug possession and conspiracy. Deputies identified her charges as:
- Possession of Cocaine
- Felony Conspiracy
- Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
- Prostitution
She is being held under a $50,000 secured bond.
Ongoing Investigation Into Drug Activity in the County
PCSO officials have stated that this remains an active investigation, suggesting that further leads or additional suspects may come under review. These types of coordinated enforcement operations, they note, are part of ongoing efforts to reduce drug distribution networks in the Greenville area.
Dangers of Drug Abuse and Community Impact
Drug trafficking cases not only lead to arrests but also highlight the broader public safety issues tied to narcotics use and distribution. Communities often experience increased crime, financial instability, and health emergencies tied to the spread of illegal substances.
Law enforcement agencies regularly emphasise that trafficking and distribution can fuel addiction, overdose incidents, and violence, which is why large-scale investigations remain a priority.
Efforts to Combat Drug Trafficking in Pitt County
Local and federal agencies continue to coordinate on narcotics enforcement, focusing on intelligence-driven strategies and proactive surveillance. These efforts often rely on:
- Community tips and neighbourhood reporting
- Data-driven monitoring of high-risk zones
- Multi-agency cooperation to track drug supply routes
Authorities encourage residents to report suspicious activity, as community participation often plays a major role in breaking up drug networks.
What Happens Next in the Legal Process
As the investigation continues, the suspects will move through the judicial system, where prosecutors will review evidence, lab results, and officer reports. Additional details may be released if further arrests or charges arise.
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