WILMINGTON, N.C. – A nine-month, multi-agency investigation dubbed “Operation Due Date” culminated last week in the dismantling of a major narcotics trafficking network in the Cape Fear Region, resulting in 32 arrests and the filing of over 200 criminal charges.
The coordinated effort, which involved more than 100 law enforcement personnel, targeted a criminal enterprise of over 37 individuals allegedly working together to distribute narcotics throughout New Hanover County.
The operation was conducted by a partnership including the New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office (NHCSO), the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (NCSBI), Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO), New Hanover County District Attorney’s Office, Wilmington Police Department (WPD), and the United States Marshals Service.
Significant Seizures and Charges
On September 16–17, 2025, law enforcement executed six search warrants across Wilmington, leading to the seizure of fentanyl, cocaine, marijuana, synthetic drugs, firearms, and other contraband.
Investigators determined that the network met the criteria for a Continuing Criminal Enterprise (CCE) under North Carolina law—a serious felony charge reserved for large-scale operations involving five or more collective actors.
“The New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office remains committed to working side by side with our local, state, and federal partners to keep dangerous drugs off our streets and to combat violent crime,” said Sheriff Ed McMahon. “This operation demonstrates what we can achieve when we stand united to protect our community.”
Key Defendants Face High Bonds
Several individuals face charges for Continuing Criminal Enterprise, Trafficking Fentanyl, and other high-level felonies. The bonds set reflect the gravity of the alleged offenses:
- Maurice McKinnon: Facing a $3,005,000 secure bond on 24 charges, including Continuing Criminal Enterprise (CCE), Trafficking Opium (X2), and Conspire to Traffic Opium (X3).
- Rynell Solomon: Held on a $2,070,000 secure bond for 35 charges, including Trafficking Opium, Conspiracy to Traffick Fentanyl, and Solicit to Commit Assault with a Deadly Weapon with Intent to Kill (ADWIK).
- Daquan Ellison: Facing a $1,500,000 secure bond for charges including two counts of Level III Trafficking Opium.
- Maurice Whitfield: Held on an $800,000 secure bond, facing two counts of Level III Trafficking Opium.
- Demant Crews: Facing 22 charges, including two counts of Level III Trafficking Opium and Possession of Firearm by Felon.
- Michael Peters: Charged with Continuing Criminal Enterprise (CCE) and other narcotics offenses; Peters has posted a $15,000 bond.
Other defendants facing multiple serious charges include Amiracle Teachey and Jamal Grady (both charged with Trafficking Opium/Heroin), and Victoria Gentile (8 Narcotic Related Charges).
Search Warrant Locations in Wilmington
The six properties searched as part of the operation were identified by authorities as:
- 619 Varsity Dr.
- 1406 Wooster St.
- 422 Mosley St.
- 425 Evans St.
- 909 North 30th St.
- 2257 Wrightsville Avenue (Apt F)
The successful conclusion of Operation Due Date represents a major disruption to the flow of illegal drugs and narcotics trafficking in the Wilmington, NC area.
Source: https://www.facebook.com/ncsbi
