Captain A,M. Harris of the narcotics division of the Halifax County Sheriff’s Office said in a statement the search warrant execution off Highway 903 in the Halifax area occurred shortly before 6 a.m. and was done with assistance from the Hazardous Entry and Arrest Team.

The search warrant which led to the arrest of 43-year-old Brent Lavon Alston was based on an investigation by Agent D.W. McKeel after receiving several complaints of drug activity during day and night.

Agents seized a shotgun, handgun, ammo, more than 7 grams of cocaine and several items of drug paraphernalia.

McKeel arrested and charged Alston with possession of firearm by felon, felony possession of cocaine, possession with intent to sell/deliver cocaine, possession of marijuana up to one-half ounce, possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of marijuana paraphernalia.

He received an August 15 court date.                                                     

Alston was convicted in Halifax County District Court in December of 2007 for felony possession of cocaine and received 18 months supervised probation.

Citizens are encouraged to report any suspected drug activity by calling the narcotics division at 252-535-1257, Halifax County Crimestoppers at 252-583-4444 or log on to www.halifaxsheriff.com to submit a tip.

Drug awareness day

On August 4 between 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. at the Highway 158 New Dixie Mart Shell at the Zoo Road intersection the narcotics division will provide resources on understanding opioid addiction and recovery.

Harris said there will be information passed and the division is planning to have substance abuse and mental health counselors on hand.

The partnership between sheriff’s office and New Dixie is based on recent complaints drug use and overdoses.