CLARENDON, N.C. — Two men were arrested on January 26 in connection with drug trafficking after Columbus County deputies recovered narcotics and a firearm during a traffic stop, the Columbus County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) reported.
Deputies from the CCSO Special Operations Division Narcotics Unit conducted the stop following an investigation into suspected narcotics activity in the Clarendon community and surrounding areas.
During a search of the vehicle, deputies located multiple illegal narcotics and a firearm. The suspects, Jatrayvis Vnquan Riggins, 22, and Avonta Timothy Clifton, 21, were taken into custody.
Riggins faces charges including:
2 counts of trafficking in opium or heroin
Conspiracy to traffic in opium or heroin
2 counts of possession with intent to manufacture, sell, or deliver a Schedule II controlled substance
Obstructing justice
Possession of drug paraphernalia
Clifton faces charges including:
Felony conspiracy to traffic in opium or heroin
Maintaining a vehicle for the storage of illegal controlled substances
Carrying a concealed weapon (firearm)
Possession of marijuana
The CCSO noted that the investigation remains ongoing, and additional charges may be forthcoming.
