HICKORY, N.C. – A 38-year-old man, William “Chase” Pate, was arrested in Hickory after law enforcement uncovered a significant drug operation during a search of his home. Burke County Sheriff’s deputies, along with Morganton Department of Public Safety SWAT teams, executed a search warrant at Pate’s property on South Fork Avenue on December 12, 2024, following a months-long investigation.
Inside the home, officers discovered a variety of drug paraphernalia, including small plastic baggies, glass pipes, straws, and other items commonly associated with drug use and distribution. Additionally, authorities seized cash and packaging materials that they say were consistent with narcotic trafficking activities.
The investigation also uncovered more than 2.2 pounds of methamphetamine, leading to charges of trafficking methamphetamine. Pate, who has a criminal history, also faces charges of possession of firearms by a felon.
Pate is currently being held on a $100,000 secured bond. The investigation was supported by multiple agencies, including the NCDOP-State K-9, NC SBI, ATF, Catawba County Sheriff’s Office, Hickory Police Department, and the Morganton Department of Public Safety.
