COLUMBUS COUNTY, N.C. — Tips from the public led Columbus County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) investigators to arrest Earl Oxendine in Cerro Gordo on multiple drug charges.
After receiving numerous reports about drug activity, deputies executed a search warrant at a Cerro Gordo residence. During the search, detectives discovered a trafficking amount of narcotics, packaging materials, and items used for transporting illegal drugs.
Oxendine was arrested and charged with:
Felony trafficking of opium or heroin
Felony maintaining a vehicle, dwelling, or place for controlled substances
Felony possession with intent to manufacture, sell, or deliver a Schedule III controlled substance
Misdemeanor possession of drug paraphernalia
He is currently held at the Columbus County Detention Center on a $25,000 secured bond.
Sheriff Bill Rogers emphasized the importance of community involvement in fighting crime. “This case is proof that your tips do not go unheard — we investigate them, and we take action. We are doing this for you, the people of Columbus County,” Rogers said. “Together, we can make our communities safer.”
