Sheriff’s Office Targets Suspected Drug Activity In Cleveland Community

CLEVELAND COMMUNITY — A Johnston County man was arrested Tuesday morning following a narcotics investigation in the Cleveland community that deputies say was launched after residents reported suspected drug activity in the area.

Members of the Johnston County Sheriff’s Office STAR Team, SAFE Team and Narcotics Division assisted with the execution of a search warrant at an apartment on Lainey Street, off Bratton Drive.

According to Sheriff’s Captain Don Pate, deputies had increased enforcement efforts in the general area in response to citizen complaints and a growing number of calls for service.

The investigation intensified on June 11 when deputies conducted surveillance and proactive enforcement operations in the area. During a three-hour period, four drug-related arrests were made nearby.

While conducting surveillance, investigators reportedly observed Ty’Shawn Tony Lilly, 37, of Garner, engaging in suspected narcotics transactions with individuals who traveled to the area. Deputies said the information gathered during the investigation led to the search warrant executed early Tuesday morning.

Investigators said Lilly had been staying at the apartment with a woman and young children.

During the search, deputies reportedly seized suspected cocaine, marijuana and drug paraphernalia from inside the residence.

Lilly was charged with possession with intent to manufacture, sell or deliver cocaine, possession with intent to manufacture, sell or deliver a controlled substance, maintaining a vehicle or dwelling for a controlled substance, and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Following his arrest, Lilly appeared before a magistrate and was given a $50,000 secured bond.

“This case stemmed from citizen complaints and proactive enforcement efforts by our deputies,” Captain Pate said. “We will continue to investigate suspected drug activity and work to keep our neighborhoods safe for the families who live there.”

The investigation remains ongoing.