Major Drug Bust in Hickory

CATAWBA COUNTY, NC – On Friday, June 12, 2026, the Catawba County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Division, with assistance from the Catawba County Sheriff’s Office Road Patrol K9 Division, Hickory Police Department, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), executed a search warrant at a residence in Hickory, North Carolina.

During the investigation, authorities seized approximately 256 grams of fentanyl, 241 grams of methamphetamine, and 52 grams of cocaine. Investigators also recovered three handguns, two AR-15 style rifles, and a significant amount of U.S. currency believed to be connected to drug trafficking activity.

As a result of the operation, Malik Nahjeen Maynard (33) of Hickory was arrested and charged with multiple drug-related offenses, including:

• Trafficking Methamphetamine

• Trafficking Fentanyl

• Trafficking Cocaine

• Possession with Intent to Manufacture, Sell, or Deliver Fentanyl

• Possession with Intent to Manufacture, Sell, or Deliver a Schedule II Controlled Substance

• Possession with Intent to Manufacture, Sell, or Deliver Cocaine

  
  

Maynard is currently being held at the Catawba County Detention Facility under a $3,500,000 secured bond.

Sheriff Brown stated that the quantity of fentanyl seized during the operation had the potential to cause significant harm within the community. He praised the coordinated efforts of investigators and partner agencies in combating drug trafficking in Catawba County.

The Catawba County Sheriff’s Office also extended thanks to the Hickory Police Department, North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives for their assistance.

Anyone with information related to drug activity is encouraged to contact the confidential tip line at 828-466-ATIP (2847), visit the agency’s website, or use the Catawba County Sheriff’s Office mobile application.