WHITEVILLE, NC — A targeted patrol aimed at curbing drug activity between Chadbourn and Whiteville led to the arrest of a Riegelwood woman on multiple drug and traffic charges last week.
On September 2, 2026, detectives with the Columbus County Sheriff’s Office Vice Narcotics Unit were conducting proactive enforcement in response to recent community complaints regarding suspected drug sales and high traffic volume in the area.
During the operation, detectives stopped a vehicle driven by Chrystal Michelle Harrelson, 41, of Riegelwood. Investigators determined that Harrelson was driving with a suspended license and subsequently found her in possession of methamphetamine and marijuana.
Harrelson was taken into custody and transported to the Columbus County Detention Facility. She faces the following charges:
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Possession of Methamphetamine (Felony)
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Maintaining a Vehicle/Dwelling/Place for Controlled Substances (Felony)
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Driving While License Revoked (DWLR) (Misdemeanor)
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Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (Misdemeanor)
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Possession of Marijuana Up to ½ Ounce (Misdemeanor)
Harrelson was issued a $5,000 secured bond and assigned an upcoming court date.
In a press release issued Thursday, Sheriff W.A. Rogers highlighted the operation as part of the agency’s ongoing effort to address community concerns and combat illegal drug activity through proactive policing.
All individuals named in this report are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law. Charges and case statuses may change as investigations and court proceedings continue.
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