Ice Unit Busts Sawmills Drug Dealer

Sheriff Alan C. Jones announced that on January 11, 2012, a five month long drug investigation came to a close with the arrest of Derrick Lavon Gilliland, age 51, of 2202 Gilliland Lane in Hudson.  Gilliland was charged by the Sheriff’s Office Ice Unit with one count of felony possess with the intent to sell/deliver marijuana, one count of felony trafficking in hydrocodone, and one count of felony maintain a dwelling to keep/store a controlled substance.  The investigation began last summer when agents received numerous complaints of vehicular traffic at his residence.  Through surveillance techniques and several controlled purchases of illegal drugs from Gilliland at his residence, the agents managed to secure a search warrant for his residence and buildings on the property. 

On January 11, 2012, the Sheriff’s Office SWAT Team executed the search warrant without incident.  Gilliland and several others were taken into custody and interviewed.  As a result of the investigation, a little over ½ pound of marijuana, 167 hydrocodone pills and $600.00 cash were seized by Ice Agents.  A pontoon boat, four wheeler, and other power saw and tool equipment were additionally seized from the residence.  The drugs have a street value of approximately $3,125.00 according to state guidelines.   According to his criminal history, Gilliland is a habitual felon and could be looking at additional charges later on.

“We are pleased with the results of this investigation.  We have also identified other players and additional arrests are pending”. – Sheriff Alan C. Jones

The following person was arrested and charged with the listed crimes:

Derrick Lavon Gilliland, W/M, age 51
2202 Gilliland Lane
Hudson, NC 28638

One (1) Count – Felonious Possession with Intent to Sell/Deliver Marijuana.

One (1) Count – Felonious Trafficking in Hydrocodone.

One (1) Count – Felonious Maintain a Dwelling to Keep/Store a Controlled Substance.

Gilliland was incarcerated under a $50,000 secured bond in the Caldwell County Detention Center and has since made bond.  He has a District Court date in Lenoir on February 2, 2012.

The Caldwell County Sheriff's Office is always in search of any information involving the use and distribution of illegal controlled substances.  A concerned citizen’s information and assistance will be kept confidential.   If you have any information concerning illegal drug activity in Caldwell County, please contact the:

Caldwell County Sheriff's Office I.C.E. Unit at 828-757-1178.

Lenoir Police Department’s Narcotics Division at 828-757-2145.

Caldwell County Crimestoppers at 828-758-8300.

This site was last updated 01/17/12