Hamptonville, NC – Two residents from the region were taken into custody following a narcotics investigation that led deputies to seize methamphetamine, fentanyl, and a shotgun during a traffic stop connected to ongoing drug complaints, according to information shared by the Yadkin County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputies reported that the incident began on Nov. 13 when surveillance was initiated at a Hamptonville residence after multiple drug-related concerns were raised by the community.
Deputies Initiate Surveillance After Community Complaints
Authorities said investigators were monitoring the home when they observed a vehicle leaving the property. Detectives noticed several motor vehicle movement violations as the car traveled north on U.S. 21 Highway, prompting a traffic stop near King James Drive.
The occupants were identified as Willie Junior Allen, 37, of Roaring River, and Melinda Morales Varela, 50, of Yadkinville.
Methamphetamine, Fentanyl, and a Shotgun Found During Search
Detectives said they established probable cause to search both the vehicle and its passengers. During the investigation, deputies discovered:
- 27 grams of methamphetamine
- 1.5 grams of fentanyl
- Drug paraphernalia
- A 12-gauge shotgun
Deputies also noted that methamphetamine was scattered inside the vehicle, an attempt investigators believe was made to discard or destroy additional quantities.
Both individuals were taken into custody and transported to the Yadkin County Magistrate’s Office.
Charges Filed Against Willie Junior Allen
According to the sheriff’s office, Willie Junior Allen faces several felony charges, including:
- Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon
- Two counts of possession with intent to manufacture, sell, or deliver a Schedule II substance (methamphetamine and fentanyl)
- Two counts of possession of a Schedule II controlled substance
- Conspiracy to sell or deliver a Schedule II controlled substance
- Maintaining a vehicle for the sale or use of controlled substances
Allen was held without bond due to previous drug-related charges in Wilkes County. His court date was set for Nov. 18 in Yadkin County District Court.
Charges Filed Against Melinda Morales Varela
Deputies also issued multiple charges against Melinda Morales Varela, including:
- Possession with intent to manufacture, sell, or deliver a Schedule II substance (methamphetamine)
- Possession of a Schedule II controlled substance
- Maintaining a vehicle for the sale or use of controlled substances
- Conspiracy to sell or deliver a Schedule II controlled substance
- Misdemeanor possession of drug paraphernalia
- Misdemeanor resisting, obstructing, or delaying an officer
Varela was also held without bond due to her active controlled substance cases in Yadkin County. She was likewise scheduled to appear in court on Nov. 18.
Dangers of Meth and Fentanyl in Local Communities
Substances like methamphetamine and fentanyl pose significant risks to public safety. Fentanyl, in particular, has been associated with fatal overdoses across North Carolina due to its extreme potency. Local law enforcement agencies continue to emphasize community reporting as a key tool in identifying drug activity and preventing related crimes.
Ongoing Efforts to Combat Drug Trafficking
Yadkin County authorities stated that community tips and continued surveillance efforts play an important role in disrupting drug distribution networks. Investigators often rely on neighborhood reports to identify locations with suspected narcotics activity, helping reduce overdose incidents and related criminal behavior in the region.
Anyone with information about illegal drug activity is encouraged to contact local law enforcement.
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