Lieutenant H.G. Phillips of the task force said the search was conducted after receiving drug complaints in the area, which began an investigation lasting approximately three months.

The investigation was carried out with assistance from agents D.W. McKeel,D.R. Radford, C.L. Dixon and D.J. Hundley.

Results of the search warrant execution, which occurred around 10 a.m., included the seizure of 9.8 grams of powdered cocaine, 1 gram of marijuana and drug paraphernalia including digital scales, small and large plastic bags and Mason jars used to store marijuana.

Phillips said the 9.8 grams of cocaine consisted of one bag containing 6.2 grams and 10 wrapped bags packaged for sale.

He described Purnell, 25, and his girlfriend, Jessica Denise Johnson, 33, both of Dickens Avenue, as reputed moderate dealers, “A little bit higher than street dealers.”

Purnell was a former suspect in the 2008 murder of Jerry Yellorday, a case in which no probable cause was found.

Another suspect in the Yellorday case, Robbie Jones, awaits court dates next month in a shooting that occurred at Creekside Court in April.

Phillips had no comment on the connection between Purnell and the Yellorday case.

Warrants have been filed for the arrest of Purnell, who tends to frequent the Highway 48 area, and Johnson for the following charges:

Possession with intent to sell and deliver cocaine; felony possession of cocaine; maintain a dwelling place for a controlled substance; simple possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Anyone with information on their whereabouts is encouraged to call the sheriff's office at 252-583-8201; Halifax Central Communications at 252-583-1991 or Crimestoppers at 252-583-4444.