On Saturday, January 24,2026 an officer with the Spruce Pine Police Department made a significant drug-related arrest following a traffic stop.
Officer Custode initiated a vehicle stop after observing a traffic violation involving a vehicle operated by Lacy Burleson of Bakersville. During a subsequent search of the vehicle, officers located suspected methamphetamine and cocaine, drug paraphernalia, various prescription pills, and a handgun.
As a result of the investigation, Burleson was charged with the following offenses:
• Possession of Methamphetamine
• Possession of Cocaine
• Possession with Intent to Manufacture, Sell, or Deliver (PWIMSD) Methamphetamine
• Possession with Intent to Manufacture, Sell, or Deliver (PWIMSD) Cocaine
• Trafficking Methamphetamine by Possession
• Trafficking Methamphetamine by Transport
• Maintaining a Vehicle for Controlled Substances
• Carrying a Concealed Gun
• Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
• Simple Possession of a Schedule II Controlled Substance (2 counts)
• Simple Possession of a Schedule III Controlled Substance
• Simple Possession of a Schedule IV Controlled Substance
Police Chief Kasey Cook expressed his appreciation for the department’s officers, stating he is thankful for their continued dedication and efforts to keep the Town of Spruce Pine safe.
The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
