On January 29, 2021, James Aaron Mitchell of 507 Pineview Avenue in Pink Hill, North Carolina was arrested as a result of a narcotics investigation conducted by the Lenoir County Sheriff's Office Narcotics Unit.

Sheriff Ronnie Ingram said, "this investigation began after receiving numerous complaints from the Pink Hill community about drug dealing activities; along with there being two drug overdoses reported at the address since October 2020. The residents there are tired of this person selling drugs in their town. Detectives found this suspect has a history of drug crimes and is currently on probation for similar charges."

During the investigation, Narcotics Detectives made multiple controlled purchases of crystal methamphetamine from Mitchell. As a result of the investigation, Detectives obtained arrest warrants for multiple drug charges and a search warrant for Mitchells' residence. During the search, detectives seized heroin, marijuana, and multiple drug paraphernalia items that indicated narcotics were being used and distributed from the residence.

Sheriff Ingram added, "I want the people of Pink Hill to know that I and my personnel have heard your complaints. We have completed a full investigation and we have the evidence to provide to the Courts to prove this subject’s illegal activity."

Mitchell has been charged with three counts of Possession with Intent to Sell and Deliver a Schedule II Controlled Substance, Felony Possession of Heroin, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Mitchell is also on Probation for drug-related charges and subject to receiving additional charges for being in violation of his current probation status. Mitched was confined in the Lenoir County Sheriff's Detention Center under a $55,000 Secured Bond.