Princeton Search Warrant Nets Three Arrests, Meth, Firearms And Animal Cruelty Charges

PRINCETON, N.C. — A Johnston County Sheriff’s Office narcotics investigation resulted in the arrest of three people after deputies reportedly discovered suspected liquid methamphetamine, a dozen firearms, and animals living in poor conditions at a home near Princeton.

The search warrant was executed July 24 at a residence in the 2900 block of Progressive Church Road.

According to the Sheriff’s Office, investigators seized 169.3 grams of suspected liquid methamphetamine and 12 firearms during the search.

Deputies said William Mack Lassiter Jr., 55, of Bakers Chapel Road, Smithfield, was found hiding inside a shed on the property. Authorities said Lassiter was also wanted on outstanding warrants at the time of his arrest.

Also arrested at the residence were Christopher Keith Moore, 41, and Ashley Alaine Dorthy, 42, both of Progressive Church Road.

Investigators reported finding multiple dogs in poor health on the property. The animals were removed by Johnston County Animal Control.

Due to the condition of the residence, Johnston County Building Inspections was called to the scene. Officials condemned the home.

Lassiter was charged with multiple counts of possession of a firearm by a felon, possession of a weapon of mass destruction, three counts of trafficking in methamphetamine, possession with intent to manufacture, sell or deliver a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, and additional offenses.

Moore faces multiple counts of possession of a firearm by a felon, possession of a weapon of mass destruction, three counts of trafficking in methamphetamine, possession with intent to manufacture, sell or deliver a controlled substance, maintaining a vehicle or dwelling for keeping or selling controlled substances, possession of drug paraphernalia, and cruelty to animals.

Dorthy was charged with maintaining a vehicle or dwelling for keeping or selling controlled substances, possession of marijuana paraphernalia, and cruelty to animals.

Lassiter was confined in the Johnston County Detention Center under a $1,058,000 secured bond. Moore received a $1,400,300 secured bond, while Dorthy was held under a $10,000 secured bond.

The investigation remains ongoing.