An investigation this week into potential metal thefts turned up much more than detectives from the Lenoir County Sheriff’s Office anticipated.
On Wednesday around 8 a.m., LCSO detectives went to 794 Dawson Station Road to further an investigation into local metal thefts. Detectives made contact with Kristopher Adam Tyson, who initially cooperated with detectives and allowed a search of the property.
During the search detectives noticed what was believed to be a poppy plant — a species of plant that’s used to create morphine and heroin. Poppy plants are illegal to possess in North Carolina.
Based upon the discovery of the plant, narcotics detectives secured the property and obtained a search warrant after consent was withdrawn by Tyson.
“The finding of poppy plants in North Carolina is unique as they are commonly grown for the production of heroin in South America and Afghanistan,” said Sheriff Chris Hill.
A Kinston-based State Highway Patrol helicopter assisted with a search of the area that uncovered numerous marijuana plants. Detectives also found precursor materials for methamphetamine.
“A search of the residence and numerous outbuildings also yielded two suspected destructive devices,” Hill said. “These devices appeared to be pipe bombs.”
Upon discovery of the pope bombs, deputies evacuated the area, secured a perimeter and immediately contacted the State Bureau of Investigation to request assistance from their bomb squad. Assistance was also requested from the FBI, ATF, ALE, and the SBI’s Clandestine Lab team. Lenoir County EMS, Lenoir County Emergency Management and the North Lenoir Volunteer Fire Department stood ready to assist in case of an emergency.
SBI bomb squad technicians detonated the suspected bombs on the scene. After rendering the devices safe, technicians found there were no explosive elements inside the devices.
Evidence seized from the property included 22 marijuana plants, 19 poppy plants and drug paraphernalia.
“We are thankful for the assistance of the NCSBI, ATF, FBI, and ALE for their roles in this investigation,” Smith said. “It’s good to know our county and state have the personnel and equipment to deal with these matters and bring them to a safe conclusion.”
Tyson has been charged with maintaining a dwelling for use/selling of controlled substances, manufacturing schedule II and manufacturing schedule VI. Tyson is being held in the Smith Detention Center under a $35,000 bond. Tyson’s first court appearance was scheduled for Thursday.
This investigation is still under way. More charges are pending. According to the North Carolina Department of Corrections database, Tyson has never been incarcerated.
You can reach Jon Dawson at 252-559-1092 or at Jon.Dawson@Kinston.com. Follow him on Twitter at JonDawsonHQ.
