Narcotics and CID investigators execute search warrant, find drugs, cash and stolen goods

Staff Report

LINCOLNTON – During the search conducted on Feb. 14 at 871 Victory Grove Church Road in Lincolnton, narcotics investigators found one and half pounds’ crystal methamphetamine, 14 ounces of marijuana, one loaded firearm, over $13,000 in U. S. currency along with other drug related items.  Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division assisted with the search and located a stolen trailer out of the Hickory area and a skid steer stolen in the Charlotte area.

Joseph Eugene Jones, 42, of Victory Grove Church Road, was arrested on indictment for trafficking in methamphetamine, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and possession of a weapon of mass destruction.  The indictments were from a seizure LCSO narcotics officers conducted on Nov. 9, 2022.  At that time officers seized 10 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine, a stolen handgun, a short barrel rifle and another $13,000 in U.S. currency.  Jones was placed in the Harven A. Crouse Detention Center under a $175.000 secured bond.

Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Division has conducted a long-term investigation since Sept. 2022 with the Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office, the Drug Enforcement Administration, Gastonia Police Department, Homeland Security Investigators, Huntersville Police Department, and Mount Holly Police Department.  

The investigation has included, but not limited to, the seizure of 150 pounds of crystal methamphetamine. 10 firearms, and approximately $27,000 in U.S. currency.   The seizures took place in Lincoln and surrounding counties.  The investigation is continuing with potential charges in the future.