Two women were arrested on drug-related charges following a traffic stop in Craven County on Sunday, January 5, 2025. The Craven County Sheriff’s Office Special Investigations Bureau and K9 Bureau initiated the stop on a vehicle traveling eastbound on US Hwy 70.
The driver, identified as Paula Koonce of New Bern, and passenger Katelyn Griffin of Pamlico County, were stopped when K9 Tia indicated the presence of narcotics. A subsequent search of the vehicle uncovered approximately 5.7 grams of fentanyl, along with various drug paraphernalia.
Griffin, 26, was arrested and charged with two counts of trafficking opium/heroin, possession with intent to manufacture, sell and deliver a Schedule II controlled substance, altering or destroying criminal evidence, and possession of drug paraphernalia. She is being held at the Craven County Detention Center on a $1.5 million secured bond.
Koonce, 30, was arrested and charged with two counts of conspiracy to traffic opium/heroin, felony maintaining a vehicle or dwelling for controlled substances, and possession of drug paraphernalia. She remains in custody at the Craven County Detention Center on a $1 million secured bond.
This case highlights the Craven County Sheriff’s Office’s ongoing commitment to combating illegal narcotics distribution in the community.
