Drug Arrest Made in Colington Harbor Following K-9 Alert

Colington, NC – A late-night routine patrol on September 4, 2024, by deputies from the A-District resulted in a drug-related arrest at the Colington Harbor Marina.

Details of the Encounter

At approximately 11:33 p.m., law enforcement officials observed a female sitting in a vehicle within the Public Vehicular Area of the marina. During the interaction, a K-9 unit was deployed, which alerted to the presence of an illegal controlled substance. This prompted a thorough search of the individual’s belongings.

Discovery of Controlled Substances

The search revealed a quantity of methamphetamine and assorted drug paraphernalia. The individual, identified as Cheryl Hightman, 44, a resident of Colington, was arrested and charged with Felony Possession of Methamphetamine and Misdemeanor Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

Legal Consequences

Following her arrest, Hightman was issued a secured bond set at $5,000. The Dare County Sheriff’s Office emphasized their ongoing commitment to maintaining public safety and tackling drug-related offenses within the community.

Community Involvement

The local sheriff’s department encourages community members to report any information regarding illegal substances or criminal activities. Residents are urged to contact local law enforcement at 252-475-5980 or the Dare County Communications Center at 252-473-3444.