Pamlico County, North Carolina – A multi-agency narcotics investigation in Pamlico County resulted in five arrests and the seizure of large quantities of illegal drugs, firearms, and cash, according to local authorities.
Law enforcement officials say the operation was the result of an ongoing investigation targeting drug trafficking activity in the area, culminating in the execution of a search warrant at a residence on Florence Road.
Multi-Agency Operation Targets Narcotics Activity
On Wednesday, December 10, 2025, deputies with the Pamlico County Sheriff’s Office and the Neuse River Narcotics Task Force carried out a coordinated search as part of a long-term investigation into cocaine trafficking.
The Neuse River Narcotics Task Force includes investigators from Pamlico, Carteret, and Craven counties, along with agents from the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation. Additional assistance during the operation was provided by the New Bern Police Department, the FBI Task Force, and North Carolina Alcohol Law Enforcement.
Authorities say the collaboration allowed officers to safely secure the residence and collect evidence linked to the distribution of controlled substances.
Drugs, Firearms, and Cash Recovered During Search
During the search of the Florence Road property, investigators reported finding a significant quantity of illegal drugs and weapons. Seized items included approximately 128 grams of crack cocaine, 36 grams of powder cocaine, and four grams of marijuana.
Officers also recovered multiple firearms, including two handguns, four rifles, and one shotgun, along with drug paraphernalia commonly associated with narcotics distribution. A quantity of U.S. currency believed to be connected to drug sales was also seized.
Officials noted that the combination of large drug quantities and multiple firearms elevated the seriousness of the case, particularly due to the presence of convicted felons at the residence.
Five Individuals Arrested and Charged
As a result of the operation, five individuals were taken into custody and charged with multiple felony offenses related to drug trafficking and firearm possession.
Cedric Bernard Dunham, 48, of Bayboro, was charged with two counts of trafficking in cocaine, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, felony maintaining a dwelling for the sale of a controlled substance, possession of marijuana up to one-half ounce, and possession of drug paraphernalia (not for marijuana). Dunham was issued a $500,000 secured bond.
Randy Donell Gibbs, 63, of Bayboro, faces two counts of conspiracy to traffic cocaine, felony maintaining a dwelling for the sale of a controlled substance, and possession of drug paraphernalia (not for marijuana). His bond was set at $200,000 secured.
Nitchele Cherene Mann, 51, of Bayboro, was charged with two counts of conspiracy to traffic cocaine, felony maintaining a dwelling for the sale of a controlled substance, possession of marijuana up to one-half ounce, and possession of drug paraphernalia (not for marijuana). Mann’s bond was also set at $200,000 secured.
Tyson Earl Brinson, 45, of Florida, faces two counts of conspiracy to traffic cocaine, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, felony maintaining a dwelling for the sale of a controlled substance, possession of marijuana up to one-half ounce, and possession of drug paraphernalia (not for marijuana). His bond was set at $300,000 secured.
Jasmine Lakeitha Paulk, 40, of Florida, was charged with two counts of conspiracy to traffic cocaine, felony maintaining a dwelling for the sale of a controlled substance, possession of marijuana up to one-half ounce, and possession of drug paraphernalia (not for marijuana). Paulk received a $200,000 secured bond.
Ongoing Investigation and Community Impact
Authorities emphasized that the investigation remains ongoing and additional charges could be filed as evidence is reviewed. Law enforcement officials say operations like this are aimed at disrupting drug distribution networks that pose risks to public safety.
Drug trafficking investigations often involve months of surveillance, coordination between agencies, and careful planning to reduce the risk to officers and nearby residents. Officials noted that firearms found during narcotics investigations significantly increase the potential for violence.
Law Enforcement Urges Public Cooperation
The Pamlico County Sheriff’s Office encouraged residents to continue reporting suspicious activity, noting that community tips often play a critical role in initiating investigations.
Officials reiterated that removing drugs and illegal firearms from neighborhoods is a key priority and helps reduce associated crimes such as theft, violence, and overdoses.
The arrested individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
If you have information related to drug activity in your community, law enforcement encourages you to contact local authorities. Share your experiences or thoughts on how drug enforcement impacts your area in the comments below.
