BY PORTSIA SMITH
A seven-year investigation has ended with the arrest of a former Caroline County resident whom authorities allege is a major drug distributor.
Caroline narcotics investigators reported that a former Dawn resident was living in Atlanta and suspected of being a high-level supplier of cocaine to Caroline, Sheriff Tony Lippa said. The investigation began in 2005, Lippa said Thursday, but lacked sufficient evidence to make an arrest.
When investigators received information that the former resident was in the area to collect money, they set up 24-hour surveillance with assistance from the Hanover County narcotics unit and Caroline patrol deputies, Lippa said.
A traffic stop was conducted at the Caroline-Hanover County line May 23 and a search of the suspect's vehicle revealed $10,000 in cash, a loaded .38-caliber semi-automatic handgun and a bag of a white powdery substance believed to be cocaine, Lippa said.
Carlson Bryant Folly, 43, of Atlanta was charged with possessing cocaine with intent to distribute, possessing a gun as a convicted felon and possessing cocaine while in the possession of a firearm.
Following his arrest, investigators executed a search warrant at the home of the family member that Folly was staying with during his visit. Lippa said investigators seized a white powdery substance believed to be cocaine, digital weight scales, crack cocaine smoking devices, .38-caliber ammunition and a motorcycle.
Robert Spears, 71, of Atlanta, was also charged with possession of cocaine. He was a guest of the home and had come to Caroline with Folly, Lippa said.
Both men are being held at Pamunkey Regional Jail without bond.
Portsia Smith: 540/374-5419
Email: psmith@fredericksburg.com