FROM STAFF REPORTS

Two suspects face felony drug charges following an investigation by the Iredell County Sheriff’s Office.

Sheriff Darren Campbell announced the arrests of Justin Ray Perdue, 34, and Amanda Christine Wolowitz, 29, both of Dellinger Drive, Statesville, in a news release. 

The ICSO began an investigation on November 20 after Deputy M. Sharpe, who is assigned to the ICSO Aggressive Criminal Enforcement Team, conducted a traffic stop on a 1997 Toyota at Beulah Road near Old Mountain Road for multiple traffic violations, Campbell said. Sergeant E. Line and Canine Wilbur responded to assist with the traffic stop.

While deputies were speaking with the driver, Perdue, Canine Wilbur was deployed and gave a positive indication to the odor of narcotics in the vehicle, according to the news release.

Deputies searched the vehicle and found three separate bags containing a total of 14.78 grams of crystal methamphetamine, along with a set of digital scales and drug paraphernalia, the sheriff said.

On December 11, Deputy Sharpe obtained warrants for Perdue’s arrest for narcotics violations. Deputies then went to Perdue’s home in an attempt to locate him.

While deputies were at the residence, they spoke with Wolowitz, who was found to be in possession of crystal methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia, according to the news release. Wolowitz was arrested and transported to the Iredell County Detention Center. Magistrate Callejas issued a no bond on the charges.

The following day, Warrant Squad Deputy D. Joyce returned to the Dellinger Drive in an attempt to locate Perdue. He was located hiding inside the residence and was taken into custody. Perdue was taken before Magistrate Chambers, who issued a $50,000 secured bond on the charges.