CARTERET COUNTY, N.C. — Three people were arrested following an undercover investigation into methamphetamine distribution, authorities said.
Kevin W. Hammond, 45, Amery L. Smith, 32, and Phylicia Brimmer, 38, of the Morehead City and Havelock areas, face multiple drug-related charges, including trafficking methamphetamine, conspiracy to traffic methamphetamine, and felony possession of cocaine, according to the Carteret County Sheriff’s Office.
Investigators said Sheriff’s Office narcotics detectives conducted several undercover purchases from Hammond, each involving trafficking-level amounts of methamphetamine. In total, authorities seized approximately 23.5 ounces of meth, preventing the drugs from being distributed locally.
The investigation concluded on Dec. 31, 2025, after a final controlled purchase. All three suspects were arrested in Newport by the Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Division and Crime Suppression Unit.
During their first appearance in Carteret County District Court on Jan. 2, 2026:
Hammond was held on a $250,000 secured bond for 16 counts of meth trafficking.
Smith was held on a $150,000 secured bond for conspiracy to traffic meth.
Brimmer was held on a $2,500 secured bond for felony cocaine possession.
