*The information below was provided in a news release from the Gastonia Police Department

GASTONIA, N.C. – A major multi-agency investigation involving the Gastonia Police Department, Gaston County Sheriff’s Office, and Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office has resulted in the disruption of a large-scale drug trafficking organization operating from Dallas, Texas to Gastonia, North Carolina. The combined efforts of these agencies led to the seizure of 44 kilos of crystal methamphetamine, valued at approximately $2.6 million on the street.

Background:

The investigation began in November 2025 when investigators from the Gastonia Police Department and the Gaston County Sheriff’s Office conducted surveillance at the residence of Rickie Shane Hooper. During this surveillance, investigators observ

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