COLUMBUS COUNTY, N.C. — Joe Russell Menser was arrested following a Columbus County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) investigation into suspected drug activity in the Pleasant Plains Community of Whiteville.
The investigation began after multiple complaints from residents about drug-related activity near Singletary Road. Vice/Narcotics detectives and the Heavy Enforcement Action Team (H.E.A.T.) conducted surveillance and undercover operations, gathering sufficient evidence to obtain a search warrant for Menser’s residence.
During the search, law enforcement officials seized narcotics, a stolen firearm, and drug paraphernalia. Menser faces several charges, including:
Felony possession of cocaine
Possession with intent to sell and distribute marijuana
Attempted possession of cocaine
Maintaining a place for keeping and selling illegal controlled substances
Possession of a stolen firearm
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon
Possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia
Menser is currently held at the Columbus County Detention Center under a $40,000 secured bond.
