Three Arrested in Connection to Two Overdose Deaths in Pamlico County
Authorities in Pamlico County, North Carolina, have arrested three individuals in connection with two separate overdose deaths. The Pamlico County Sheriff’s Office announced the arrests following investigations into incidents that occurred in December 2023 and January 2024.
The first case occurred on January 30, 2024, when deputies responded to a call at 338 Foxwood Trail, where they found Jacqueline Mantia unresponsive. Upon further investigation, it was determined that Mantia had died from a drug-related overdose. Deputies identified 61-year-old Richard Evans, a resident of Reelsboro, as the individual who had provided Mantia with the drugs.
Evans was arrested the following day, January 31, 2024, and charged with one count of death by distribution of a controlled substance as well as possession of a weapon of mass destruction. Authorities set his bond at $125,000.
The second case dates back to December 4, 2023, when deputies were called to 215 Shingle Brook Road for a report of an unresponsive male. Upon arrival, authorities discovered that Jason Stultz had died from an apparent drug overdose.
After an extensive investigation, deputies determined that the overdose was drug-related and identified two suspects: 53-year-old Lisa Bass and 52-year-old Steven Smith, both from Craven County. Authorities say the two were responsible for selling and delivering the drugs that caused Stultz’s death.
Both Bass and Smith were charged with death by distribution of a controlled substance. They were arrested by other agencies and later transferred to the Pamlico County Jail. Lisa Bass received a $100,000 secured bond, while Steven Smith’s bond was set at $150,000.
Pamlico County Sheriff Chris Davis emphasized the department’s commitment to holding drug dealers accountable. “It is our goal to continue to arrest those responsible for distributing this poison to our family and friends in Pamlico County,” Davis stated. He also extended his condolences to the families impacted by the overdoses and praised his team for their investigative efforts.
Authorities continue their efforts to combat drug-related crimes in the county and encourage residents to report any suspicious activity to law enforcement.
