On December 15, the Yancey County Sheriff’s Office arrested Kelly Daly, a California resident, in the Pensacola community. Daly was charged with trafficking cocaine and possession with intent to manufacture, sell, and distribute cocaine, after deputies discovered nearly one kilogram of cocaine
Daly had reportedly been in Yancey County under the guise of volunteering for the Hurricane Helene recovery effort. Sheriff Shane Hilliard expressed both concern and caution to the community.
“While most volunteers are here to genuinely help our community recover, there are unfortunately individuals and groups who do not have our best interests at heart,” said Sheriff Hilliard. “I urge residents to thoroughly vet organizations and individuals offering assistance. Look for established groups with 501(c)(3) nonprofit status to ensure your safety and the integrity of the recovery effort.”
