FROM STAFF REPORTS

An Iredell County man faces a second-degree murder charge in connection with an overdose death following an investigation by the Statesville Police Department.

Sheriff Darren Campbell announced the arrest of Nathaniel Scott Cass, 34, of Diane Lane, Statesville, in a news release Monday.

Cass was taken into custody by Warrant Squad Deputy K. Robbins on Sunday, April 2, at a business located off Harmony Highway, Campbell said.

After hearing evidence in the case, a grand jury determined there was probable cause to charge Cass with second-degree murder by unlawful distribution of substance, according to the news release.

The ICSO did not provide details about the victim in the case or the circumstances surrounding the individual’s death.

The sheriff said Cass had been evading members of regional law enforcement agencies for some time.

Deputy Robbins developed leads by contacting local community members who provided him with information on where Cass could be located, according to the news release.

Cass was taken to the Iredell County Detention Center, where he was served with the indictment. He then appeared before Magistrate Nethken, who issued a $300,000 secured bond on this charge.

“I want to recognize the efforts of Deputy Robbins for his relentless pursuit of this wanted person,” Campbell said. “The community is safer for having this man in custody.”