Charlotte, NC – A major enforcement action unfolded in Northwest Charlotte after a coordinated police operation uncovered a significant drug distribution hub, leading to multiple arrests and the recovery of narcotics, weapons, and cash. The raid, supported by specialized units, reflects ongoing efforts to curb open-air drug markets and restore safety across affected neighborhoods.
Operation Overview
Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department conducted the targeted raid at a property locally known as “The Carters,” a location long associated with open-air drug sales. The operation was led by the Northwest Service Area Crime Reduction Unit, with tactical support from the Metro Division and SWAT. The site had been under surveillance due to repeated complaints, suspicious activity, and its reputation as a high-volume sale point for illegal substances.
Officers seized approximately 335.4 grams of suspected marijuana, over 40 grams of suspected crack cocaine, 10 suspected Oxycodone pills, two firearms, more than $700 in cash, drug paraphernalia, and six cell phones believed to be used for coordinating drug sales. Authorities noted that the volume of narcotics recovered suggests an active distribution network operating from the property.
This operation is one of several recent actions targeting drug-related crime as part of CMPD’s ongoing focus on community safety.
Arrests and Charges
Police confirmed that several suspects were taken into custody during the raid. Arrested individuals include Deonta’e Beasley, Nniya Perry, Jerisha Reid, Antonio Gaines, Terrence Oxner, and Zavon Martin.
Charges filed across the group range from possession with intent to sell or distribute controlled substances, maintaining a dwelling for drug sales, felony drug possession, possession of drug paraphernalia, and resisting arrest. One suspect was also linked to firearm-related offenses connected to the recovered weapons.
Authorities say these arrests dismantle a network responsible for supplying narcotics throughout the surrounding community.
Police Statements and Public Safety Efforts
CMPD noted that the combined approach of crime reduction teams and SWAT ensured a controlled, safe operation. A department representative emphasized that open-air drug markets often attract violence, adding risk to bystanders and neighborhoods.
“Removing these drugs and firearms from the street helps reduce the cycle of violence tied to narcotics activity,” officials stated during a post-operation briefing.
The department continues to use intelligence-led policing, surveillance, and community reporting to identify high-risk areas and repeat offenders.
Crime Trends in Charlotte
The drug raid comes at a time when Charlotte has seen progress in reducing violent crime. City data shows homicides down by nearly 24% and overall violent crime reduced by around 20% through 2025. Declines have been noted in aggravated assaults, robberies, and rapes, indicating improvements in several key areas.
Despite these gains, police report that drug offenses and property crimes remain persistent issues, particularly in areas with concentrated illegal drug activity. Operations such as the recent raid aim to dismantle these pockets of crime before they escalate into violence or broader community impact.
Community Impact and Ongoing Initiatives
The seizure of narcotics and firearms is viewed as a direct step toward improving safety and disrupting drug markets that fuel other criminal behavior. Police emphasized that this action is part of a larger strategy that includes heightened patrols, neighborhood engagement, and intelligence sharing among units.
Community members in Northwest Charlotte have voiced concerns about drug activity for years. The recent arrests are expected to bring some relief while officers continue monitoring the area for potential resurgence of illegal activity.
CMPD encourages residents to report suspicious behavior, noting that community tips played a role in identifying the location targeted in this operation.
Conclusion
Charlotte’s latest drug bust highlights both law enforcement’s increasing focus on high-risk narcotics activity and the broader downward trend in violent crime across the city. By removing drugs, firearms, and several repeat offenders from a known hotspot, police aim to restore safety and reduce the threat of violence connected to the illegal drug trade.
If you live in the area or have witnessed similar activity in your neighborhood, share your experiences in the comments below.
