Two people arrested following drug bust in North Carolina

NORTH CAROLINA — A routine traffic stop in Martin County resulted in the discovery of approximately 37 grams of fentanyl—enough for 18,500 potentially lethal doses—and the arrest of two individuals on multiple drug trafficking charges, according to the Martin County Sheriff’s Office.

The Williamston Police Department initiated the stop around 5:30 p.m. on May 7 near the intersection of Technology Boulevard and U.S. Highway 64 after pulling over a tan Oldsmobile Bravada.

Officers reported the strong odor of marijuana coming from the vehicle and observed additional evidence suggesting the presence of illegal substances.

The Martin County Narcotics Unit responded to assist in the search. Authorities recovered 37 grams of fentanyl, digital scales, and roughly $700 in cash from the vehicle.

The suspects, identified as Donta Antwan Valentine and Tineshia Latrice Brown, were each held without bond for 48 hours and face several felony charges, including:

• Trafficking in Opium by Transportation
• Trafficking in Opium by Possession
• Possession with Intent to Manufacture, Sell, or Deliver Controlled Substances within 1,000 feet of a School
• Possession with Intent to Manufacture, Sell, or Deliver Schedule II Controlled Substance
• Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

According to the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, just 2 milligrams of fentanyl can be fatal depending on a person’s size, tolerance, and past drug use. The seized fentanyl has an estimated street value of $10,000.