RALEIGH - United States Attorney Thomas G. Walker announced today that a jury convicted WILLIAM ELDRIDGE ASKEW, III, of Rocky Mount, North Carolina, of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin and aiding and abetting the possession with intent to distribute heroin. The jury returned its verdict following a trial in federal court before United States Chief District Judge James C. Dever, III.
Following an investigation into suspected heroin trafficking organizations in Rocky Mount, North Carolina; law enforcement agents learned that ASKEW and a co-defendant, MUTAR ALI BROCK, would be transporting 100 grams or more of heroin into the City of Rocky Mount from Detroit, Michigan for distribution in and around Rocky Mount and Wilson, North Carolina. Rocky Mount Police intercepted the vehicle as it entered Rocky Mount. ASKEW was driving the vehicle when it was stopped by law enforcement personnel. A search of the vehicle led to the seizure of heroin, marijuana and drug paraphernalia.
BROCK previously pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute heroin. At sentencing, ASKEW faces a minimum of five years and up to forty years imprisonment.
The investigation and arrests were handled by the Rocky Mount Police Department with the assistance of the United States Drug Enforcement Administration and the United States Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. The North Carolina Bureau of Investigations, Forensics Lab provided forensic assistance. Assistant U.S. Attorney Edward Gray and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Patrick Weede represented the government.
Source: U.S. Department of Justice, Office of the United States Attorneys
