NORTH CAROLINA — A local man and woman are facing multiple drug-related charges after deputies stopped their vehicle on Aug. 18 for allegedly suspicious activity, the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office reported.
Marlene Cecile Osorio, 36, of Glenville, was arrested on two felony counts of trafficking opium or heroin and additional felony charges including possession with intent to manufacture, sell, or deliver a Schedule II controlled substance, possession with intent to sell methamphetamine, maintaining a dwelling for drug distribution, possession of cocaine, and conspiracy charges. She also faces one misdemeanor count of possession of drug paraphernalia.
Luis Fernando Andres Sertorio, 29, also of Glenville, was arrested for conspiracy to traffic opium or heroin and conspiracy to sell methamphetamine.
Deputies said they observed the pair around 7 p.m. leaving a known drug area on Skyland Drive. The vehicle was stopped for an undisclosed traffic violation. Officers noted “odd behavior from the passenger,” prompting a request for a Sylva Police Department K9 unit.
The dog alerted to the presence of drugs, and a subsequent search of the vehicle uncovered nearly 10 grams of suspected fentanyl, 15 grams of presumed methamphetamine, and half a gram of suspected crack cocaine.
Authorities allege Osorio and Sertorio were conspiring to traffic the drugs. Osorio reportedly used a Nissan Altima to store and distribute the substances. Officers also found drug paraphernalia including a glass smoking pipe, digital scale, and packaging materials.
If convicted, Osorio could face decades in prison. Trafficking opium or heroin in amounts between 14 and 28 grams carries a sentence of 90 to 117 months and a $100,000 fine. Conspiracy charges carry similar penalties. Other felony charges carry varying maximum sentences ranging from 24 to 39 months.
Osorio remains in the Jackson County Detention Center under a $150,000 secured bond. Sertorio is being held on a $75,000 secured bond.
