DURHAM, NC – (Thursday, February 12, 2026)– The Durham County Sheriff’s Office Anti-Crime and Narcotics Unit (SAC/Narc), in its continued efforts to target local drug dealers, has arrested a Durham man for trafficking in fentanyl.
On the evening of February 11, 2026, investigators were monitoring a known drug trafficker when they observed him leaving his home in the Grove Park community of Durham County. They conducted a traffic stop, which led to the discovery of street-level amounts of narcotics in his possession.
As a result, a search warrant was obtained for his home on the 400 block of N. Waters Edge Dr. A search of the residence revealed approximately 30 grams of fentanyl, as well as marijuana and cocaine. In addition to the drugs, a semi-automatic AK-47 pistol (known as a “Draco”), multiple handguns, and a large sum of currency were seized.
This investigation was assisted by the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) as part of a continued effort to combat organized drug trafficking in the region.
“The distribution of fentanyl continues to be a top priority for our investigators because of the lethal threat it poses to our community,” said Sheriff Clarence F. Birkhead. “Removing 30 grams of this poison and high-powered weaponry from our streets is a significant win for public safety.”
Charged in this case is 56-year-old Howard Junior Hutcherson. Hutcherson is currently being held in the Durham County Detention Center without bond on the following charges:
- Maintain vehicle/dwelling/place for controlled substance (2 counts)
- Possess drug paraphernalia
- Possession of a firearm by a felon
- PWIMSD cocaine
- PWIMSD fentanyl
- PWISD marijuana
- Trafficking in cocaine
- Trafficking in fentanyl (2 counts)
