Catawba County, NC – On Wednesday, November 5, 2025, Narcotics Investigators with the Catawba County Sheriff’s Office conducted a vehicle stop involving a suspect in an ongoing cocaine trafficking investigation.
The vehicle was occupied by Ta’Shawn Thomas Byrd, 31, of Hickory, NC. During the stop, investigators developed reason to search the vehicle. The search resulted in the discovery of approximately 291 grams of cocaine, two (2) Draco firearms, and one (1) pistol. As part of the ongoing investigation, Narcotic Investigators also executed a search warrant at an apartment in Hickory, where they seized approximately 4.83 grams of cocaine, one (1) Draco firearm, and one (1) pistol.
The suspect, Byrd, was arrested and charged with the following offenses:
• Trafficking in Cocaine by Possession
• Trafficking in Cocaine by Transport
• Maintaining a Dwelling for a Controlled Substance
• Carrying a Concealed Weapon
• Possess Weapon of Mass Destruction
Byrd is currently held in the Catawba County Detention Facility under a $400,000 secured bond. Byrd’s next court appearance is scheduled for November 24th, 2025.
This investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information about drug-related activity is encouraged to contact our
confidential tipline at 828-466-ATIP (2847), visit our website, or use the Catawba County Sheriff’s Office
mobile application.
