Owners Charged With Trafficking Drugs Out Of Lincolnton Store

LINCOLNTON, N.C. — Three people have been arrested after deputies say they were trafficking drugs out of a store in Lincolnton.

The search of the business was a result of an ongoing undercover and surveillance operation where opioid-based pills and marijuana were being sold at the J&M Discount Variety Store on East Highway 27, according to a news release.

Two owners and an employee are facing felony charges in the case.  During the search of the store, deputies seized nearly 1.5 pounds of marijuana, more than 70 grams of oxycodone pills, two handguns, drug paraphernalia and over $13,000 in cash.

Mandi Smith, 39, of Iron Station, has been charged with one felony count each of trafficking in opium or heroin, possession of a controlled substance with the intent to manufacture a schedule VI, maintaining a dwelling for a controlled substance and possession of a controlled substance with the intent to manufacture a schedule II and felony possession of a firearm.  She was also charged with two felony counts of conspiracy, two misdemeanor counts of possession of drug paraphernalia and one misdemeanor count of possession of a controlled substance schedule IV.

Askari Johnson, 37, of Iron Station, has been charged with one felony count each of trafficking in opium or heroin, possession of a controlled substance with the intent to manufacture a schedule VI, maintaining a dwelling for a controlled substance and possession of a controlled substance with the intent to manufacture a schedule II and felony possession of a firearm.  She was also charged with two felony counts of conspiracy, two misdemeanor counts of possession of drug paraphernalia and one misdemeanor count of possession of a controlled substance schedule IV.

Kenin Anzalone, 33, of Iron Station, has been charged with two felony counts of conspiracy and one misdemeanor count of possession of drug paraphernalia.

Investigators say the investigation continues and more charges are likely.