Last Updated on February 11, 2026 3:47 pm
Law enforcement agencies in Watauga County conducted two major narcotics operations in early February, resulting in significant drug seizures and multiple arrests.
On the night of February 3, 2026, Special Operations Detectives from the Watauga County Sheriff's Office and Boone Police Department initiated a traffic stop around 7:00 pm. K-9 Fox provided a positive alert, leading to the discovery of 86 grams of methamphetamine and 4 grams of fentanyl.
The primary suspect, Jason Conley Anderson, 32, of Boone, was taken into custody. Specific charges against Anderson include:
- Two counts of Trafficking in Methamphetamine
- Two counts of Trafficking in Fentanyl
- Felony Maintaining a Vehicle for Controlled Substances
- PWIMSD Methamphetamine
- Felony Maintaining Dwelling for Controlled Substances
- Felony Expose Child to Controlled Substances
- Possession of Firearm by Felon
- Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
A subsequent search warrant at Anderson's residence uncovered an additional 22 grams of methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia, and an illegal firearm.
Two additional suspects, Connie Jean Shell, 61, and RG Shell, 65, both of Boone, were also arrested and charged with:
- Felony Maintain Dwelling for Controlled Substances
- Felony Expose Child to Controlled Substances
A second operation on February 5-6, 2026, resulted in another significant drug seizure. During a traffic stop where K-9 Hattie provided a positive alert, officers seized approximately 25 grams of fentanyl and a firearm.
Three individuals were arrested with the following charges:
- Cody Michael Miller, 31, of Blowing Rock: Two counts of Level II Trafficking Fentanyl
- Nichole Danielle Garrison, 33, of Boone: Two counts of Level II Trafficking Fentanyl
- Jamie Lee Retterer, 31, of Boone: Two counts of Level II Trafficking Fentanyl and Felony Maintain Vehicle for Controlled Substances
Law enforcement continues to encourage community members to provide information. Anyone with details can contact High Country Crimestoppers at 828-268-6959.
