NORTH CAROLINA — The Asheville Police Department arrested four people on Wednesday, Aug. 27, after a search of a west Asheville home uncovered drugs, firearms, and money, officials said.
The investigation began with a Washington County, Virginia, drug case that led APD to obtain a search warrant for a residence on Ascension Drive. During the search, officers found $7,611, four handguns—including one reported stolen—202 grams of marijuana, and a fentanyl press.
Three adults inside the home were arrested and charged, while a juvenile present was temporarily detained and released to their mother.
Before executing the search warrant, officers encountered two people leaving the home in a vehicle. The passenger, 25-year-old Deonte Sincere Gardner, was found with 16.6 grams of fentanyl and arrested without incident.
Gardner faces multiple felony charges, including trafficking opium or heroin, possession with intent to manufacture, sell, or deliver Schedule II drugs, and a probation violation. He was booked into the Buncombe County Detention Facility under a $55,000 bond.
Other arrests include:
- Lawrence Sincere Gardner, 22: Felony maintain vehicle/dwelling/place for controlled substances; booked under a $50,000 bond.
- Rasheed Jahaad Grant, 23: Felony maintain vehicle/dwelling/place for controlled substances, possession of a firearm by a felon, and possession of a stolen firearm; booked under a $250,000 bond.
- Damion Keire Smith Jr., 22: Felony possession with intent to manufacture, sell, or deliver marijuana; booked under a $5,000 bond.
APD said the investigation is ongoing and additional charges are possible. The department thanked the Washington County Sheriff’s Office for their assistance.
Anyone with information on illegal drug or gun activity is urged to call APD at 828-252-1110, text TIP2APD to 847411, or use the TIP2APD app to submit an anonymous tip.
