In an early morning swoop on US Highway 321, the Catawba County Sheriff’s Office reported seizing a significant stash of fentanyl alongside other controlled substances and illegal firearms. Nicholas James Shoup, 35, and Tracy Shane Campos, 32, the alleged traffickers, are now facing a range of drug trafficking and firearm charges. Both men were taken into custody following a traffic stop that led to the narcotics bust, as detailed in a statement from the Catawba County Sheriff's Office.
All told, investigators seized 60 grams of fentanyl and 3 grams of methamphetamine. Additionally, two firearms were confiscated, one of which was reported stolen from Lincoln County, and various drug paraphernalia. Shoup is facing multiple charges including Trafficking Opium/Heroin by Possession, Trafficking Opium/Heroin by Transportation, and Felony Possession of Schedule II, among others. Campos has been charged with similar drug trafficking crimes and a concealed gun offense. Both men have been given highly secured bonds and made their initial court appearances yesterday.
The involvement of stolen firearms in this instance underscores the intersection of the narcotics trade and other criminal activities. Each confiscated item piece by piece dismantles a structure built on illegality and violence. Details regarding the nature of the investigation that led to these arrests have not been disclosed, but the Narcotics Division’s work underlines an ongoing fight against the opioid epidemic that has plagued communities locally and nationally.
Shoup received a $750,000 secured bond and Campos received a $700,000 secured bond, each must now navigate the legal system with the weight of their charges bearing down on them. The seriousness of these charges reflects the gravity with which authorities are treating the trafficking and distribution of substances like fentanyl, a drug that has been a major contributor to the escalating overdose deaths in the United States. The seized narcotics have a street value that is not insignificant – representing not just the loss of illegal income for traffickers, but potentially lives saved from the reach of addiction and overdose.
The Catawba County Sheriff’s Office through Major Aaron Turk, Public Information Officer, provided information on the arrests and remains dedicated to providing transparency on public safety operations. The ongoing efforts of local law enforcement agencies to curb illicit drug trafficking continue to be pivotal, as they confront the complex web of issues tied to substance abuse and unlawful arms possession. For further details, Major Turk’s contact information, following the provided email address, [email protected], invites the public to stay informed.
