Asheville, N.C. – A drug investigation led by the Asheville Police Department (APD) resulted in four arrests, the seizure of a fentanyl press, firearms, and $7,611 in cash, highlighting growing concerns over opioid trafficking in western North Carolina.
Search Warrant Leads to Arrests
On Wednesday, Aug. 27, 2025, APD executed a search warrant at a home on Ascension Drive in west Asheville. The warrant stemmed from a Washington County Sheriff’s Office (Virginia) drug investigation, which connected the Asheville residence to suspected trafficking activity.
Inside the home, officers recovered four handguns—including one reported stolen—along with 202 grams of marijuana and a fentanyl press used in drug manufacturing.
Three adults were arrested at the home, while a juvenile present was detained briefly before being released to their mother.
Suspects and Charges
Before entering the home, APD officers stopped a vehicle leaving the property. The passenger, Deonte Sincere Gardner, 25, was found with 16.6 grams of fentanyl and arrested without incident.
Gardner faces multiple charges, including:
- Felony trafficking opium or heroin (two counts)
- Felony possession with intent to manufacture, sell, or deliver Schedule II
- Felony probation violation
He is being held in the Buncombe County Detention Facility on a $55,000 bond (or $5,500 through a bondsman).
Other suspects include:
- Lawrence Sincere Gardner, 22 – Charged with felony maintaining a dwelling/vehicle for controlled substances; bond set at $50,000 ($5,000 through a bondsman).
- Rasheed Jahaad Grant, 23 – Charged with felony maintaining a dwelling for controlled substances, felony possession of a firearm by a felon, and felony possession of a stolen firearm; bond set at $250,000 ($25,000 through a bondsman).
- Damion Keire Smith Jr., 22 – Charged with felony possession with intent to manufacture, sell, or deliver marijuana; bond set at $5,000 ($500 through a bondsman).
Community Safety Concerns
The seizure of a fentanyl press underscores the ongoing risk of opioid trafficking in North Carolina. Law enforcement officials warn that fentanyl, even in small amounts, poses a deadly threat to the community.
“This case highlights the danger fentanyl continues to bring to our neighborhoods. We remain committed to taking these operations off our streets,” APD noted in its release.
Ongoing Investigation
APD stated the case remains active and ongoing, with the potential for additional charges. The department thanked the Washington County Sheriff’s Office for their assistance in the investigation.
How to Report Tips
APD encourages residents to help combat illegal drug and gun activity. Anyone with information is urged to call (828) 252-1110. Anonymous tips can also be sent by texting TIP2APD to 847411 or using the TIP2APD app.
Conclusion
The arrests highlight both the regional cooperation between law enforcement agencies and the persistent challenge of drug trafficking in western North Carolina. With multiple suspects facing serious charges, authorities say more developments are likely in the days ahead.
What’s your take on the growing fentanyl crisis in North Carolina? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
