Last Updated on January 15, 2026 11:31 am
BLOWING ROCK – A traffic stop by Blowing Rock Police in November has resulted in a prison sentence for a man charged with felony habitual larceny and fentanyl possession.
On November 8, 2025, Blowing Rock Police Department officers conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle leaving Food Lion in Blowing Rock for failure to display a registration plate.
During the stop, officers observed numerous indicators that led to a larceny/theft ring investigation. The Boone Police Department's K-9, Milo, was called to assist and gave a positive alert on the vehicle for the odor of narcotics.
Richard Atkins, of Bessemer City, was arrested and charged with felony habitual larceny, misdemeanor possession of stolen goods, felony possession of schedule II (fentanyl), misdemeanor possession of drug paraphernalia, and felony possession of contraband on jail premises.
Atkins was held with no bond until he appeared before a judge, where he was given a $100,000 bond for the Blowing Rock charges. He also had an outstanding felony warrant out of Catawba County for felony habitual larceny.
On January 9, 2026, Atkins was sentenced to a maximum of 25 months with a minimum of 12 months in prison for the Blowing Rock charges.
“This traffic stop is a great example of proactive policing that helps keep our community safe,” the department said. “We are also very grateful for our relationship with the Boone Police Department and their assistance from their K-9 and handler.”
