NORTH CAROLINA — Authorities seized nearly 45 pounds of marijuana during two separate incidents in Johnston County over a two-day period late last week, according to law enforcement officials.
Officials said the seizures stemmed from a drug raid and a high-speed chase, resulting in two arrests.
According to the Johnston County Sheriff’s Office, the first incident occurred Thursday when deputies executed a search warrant at a home along Richardson-Bass Road near Kenly.
During the search, authorities said they seized approximately 12 pounds of marijuana, along with about 131 grams of heroin, 65.8 grams of methamphetamine and $25,371 in cash.
Officials said 43-year-old Manuel Rivera Sanchez was arrested and charged with multiple felony offenses, including trafficking in heroin, methamphetamine and marijuana, maintaining a dwelling for controlled substances and possession of drug paraphernalia. Authorities noted Sanchez was already on probation for meth distribution and was held on a $1.1 million secured bond.
The second incident occurred Friday night when Kenly Police Department attempted to stop a driver along Interstate 95. Officials said the stop led to a high-speed chase that ended off the highway.
Authorities said approximately 32 pounds of marijuana were seized during the incident, and a Fayetteville man was arrested on multiple charges.
Officials said the investigation remains ongoing.
