IFN Staff

Three suspects face felony drug charges as a result of an Iredell County Sheriff’s Office investigation.

The ICSO Narcotics Division began investigating after concerned citizens reported suspicious activity at 514 Concord Avenue in Statesville, Sheriff Darren Campbell said in an news release. While conducting surveillance, detectives observed behavior consistent with drug trafficking and identified Michael Lee Pettit, 56, who lived at the residences, as a primary suspect, Campbell said.

Undercover officers conducted controlled purchases of crystal methamphetamine directly from Pettit inside the residence, confirming illegal drug sales at the location, according to the news release.

Based on this evidence, investigators secured a search warrant for the residence.

On the evening of Wednesday, January 29, narcotics investigators, along with members of the ICSO Aggressive Criminal Enforcement Team executed a narcotics search warrant at 514 Concord Avenue, Campbell said. ICSO personnel seized 31 grams of crystal methamphetamine, along with various items of drug paraphernalia, according to the news release.

As a result of the investigation, the following individuals were arrested:

Michael Kevin Vanname, 59, of Concord Avenue, Statesville, was charged with Felony Possession of Methamphetamine; Felony Maintain a Vehicle or Dwelling for a Controlled Substance; and Misdemeanor Possession of Marijuana. He received a $15,000 secured bond by Magistrate Thompson.

Ashley Nicole Woodhull, 40, of Kendall Lane, Troutman, was charged with Felony Possession of Methamphetamine and Misdemeanor Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Woodhull received a $10,000 secured bond by Magistrate Thompson.

Petitt has not been apprehended. Warrants have been issued for his arrest on the following charges: Felony Trafficking Methamphetamine; Felony Maintain a Vehicle or Dwelling for a Controlled Substance; and Misdemeanor Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

“When citizens step forward with information, they play a crucial role in keeping their communities safer,” Sheriff Campbell said. “We appreciate those who report their concerns and encourage others to do the same. If you suspect illegal drug activity, you can quickly and anonymously submit a tip through the Iredell County Sheriff’s Office mobile app or contact our office directly.”

Anyone with information on this case or the whereabouts of Michael Lee Pettit is urged to contact the Iredell County Sheriff’s Office at (704) 878-3180 or submit an anonymous tip through the Iredell County Sheriff’s Office mobile app.