In response to numerous citizen complaints, a coordinated investigation between the Lenoir Police Department and the Caldwell County Sheriff’s Office I.C.E. Unit has resulted in the arrest of three individuals involved in illegal drug distribution in the Lenoir area.
On April 8, 2025, law enforcement executed search warrants at three separate locations, recovering:
Over 139 grams of crack cocaine
Over 943 grams of marijuana
More than $33,000 in cash
One handgun
The estimated street value of the seized narcotics is over $35,000.
Arrest Details:
Marquis Terrell Witherspoon, 47, of Lenoir, was arrested on April 8 and charged with:
Conspire to Traffic in Cocaine
Manufacture Cocaine
(2) Counts of Maintaining a Vehicle/Dwelling for Controlled Substances
Bond: $500,000 Secured
Joshua Ryan Audrey, 43, of Lenoir, was arrested on April 8th and charged with:
Conspire to Traffic in Cocaine
Manufacture Cocaine
(2) Counts of Maintaining a Vehicle/Dwelling for Controlled Substances
Bond: $500,000 Secured
Daniel “DJ” Jerod Perkins, 38, of Morganton, was arrested on April 10th and charged with:
Felony Conspiracy to Traffic Cocaine
Bond: $25,000 Secured
Statement from Sheriff Kevin Bean:
“By working together, we are sending a clear message that illegal drug activity will not be tolerated in our communities. I’m proud of the dedication shown by all involved in ensuring that those who threaten the safety and well-being of our citizens are held accountable.”
Agencies Involved:
Caldwell County Sheriff’s Office I.C.E. Unit
Lenoir Police Department
Burke County Sheriff’s Office
Alexander County Sheriff’s Office
Watauga County Sheriff’s Office
North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (SBI)
The Caldwell County Sheriff’s Office encourages anyone with information related to illegal drug activity to come forward. All information will be kept confidential.
Contact Information:
Caldwell County I.C.E. Unit: 828-757-1178
Lenoir Police Narcotics Division: 828-757-2145
Hudson Police Department: 828-728-5021
Granite Falls Police Department: 828-396-3358
Caldwell County Crimestoppers: 828-758-8300
Daniel Jerod Perkins