Multi-Agency Drug Bust Nets Fentanyl, Meth, Firearms in Hickory

A multi-agency drug investigation in Hickory led to the seizure of large quantities of narcotics, firearms, and cash, along with the arrest of a local man facing multiple trafficking charges.

On Friday, June 12, 2026, the Catawba County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Division, with assistance from the 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.

During the search, investigators reported seizing approximately 256 grams of fentanyl, 241 grams of methamphetamine, and 52 grams of cocaine. Authorities also recovered three handguns, two AR-15 style rifles, and a significant amount of U.S. currency.

33-year-old Malik Nahjeen Maynard of Hickory was arrested and charged with multiple drug trafficking and possession offenses, including trafficking methamphetamine, trafficking fentanyl, trafficking cocaine, and several counts of possession with intent to manufacture, sell, or deliver controlled substances.

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

Sheriff Don Brown said the amount of fentanyl seized during the investigation had the potential to cause significant harm.

“I am proud of the work our investigators and law enforcement partners continue to do to identify those responsible for bringing these dangerous drugs into Catawba County,” Brown said.

The Catawba County Sheriff’s Office thanked its partner agencies, including Hickory Police, the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation, and ATF, for their assistance in the case.

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