NORTH CAROLINA — Three people were arrested following an undercover investigation into methamphetamine distribution in Carteret County, according to the Carteret County Sheriff’s Office.
Sheriff’s officials said Kevin W. Hammond, 45; Amery L. Smith, 32; and Phylicia Brimmer, 38, were charged with multiple drug-related offenses, including trafficking methamphetamine, conspiracy to traffic methamphetamine and felony possession of cocaine. Authorities said the suspects live in the Morehead City and Havelock areas.
According to the sheriff’s office, narcotics detectives conducted several undercover drug purchases from Hammond during the investigation. Officials said each controlled buy involved trafficking-level amounts of methamphetamine.
In total, detectives purchased and seized approximately 23.5 ounces of methamphetamine, which authorities said prevented the drugs from being distributed within Carteret County.
The investigation concluded on Dec. 31, 2025, following a final undercover purchase. All three suspects were taken into custody in Newport. Arrests were carried out by the Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Division and Crime Suppression Unit.
During their first appearance in Carteret County District Court on Jan. 2, 2026, Hammond was issued a $250,000 secured bond on 16 counts of trafficking methamphetamine. Smith received a $150,000 secured bond on one count of conspiracy to traffic methamphetamine. Brimmer was given a $2,500 secured bond on a charge of felony possession of cocaine, according to the sheriff’s office.
