APD Search Warrant: Fentanyl, Stolen Firearms Found

Asheville -- June 1, 2023: After conducting a thorough investigation, detectives from the Asheville Police Department carried out a search warrant at a home in west Asheville on Tuesday afternoon.

According to the police report, fentanyl and stolen weapons were found at the residence.

Seven firearms, including an AK-47, an Uzi, a shotgun, and a.500 magnum revolver, as well as more than 15 ounces of suspected fentanyl were discovered by the officers during their search of the home. A 3D printer and numerous spools of plastic filament were also discovered by the officers, and they believe these items were used to create the polymer frames for ghost weapons. The investigation continues.

Valachie Wendell Hendon (03/03/1983) is being held at the Buncombe County Detention Facility under a $536,000 secured bond (or $53,600 to a bondsman) issued by the magistrate.

Seized:

-Century Arms AK-47 (7.62 cal)
-S&W 500 magnum revolver (.500 magnum) *reported stolen*
-FMJ Uzi submachine gun (9mm)
-Akker Model 612 shotgun (12 ga) *reported stolen*
-Taurus Judge Revolver (.45 cal)
-American Tactical GSG 22 handgun (.22 cal)
-436.03g of fentanyl
-3D printer w/ filament spools

Arrested:

Valachie Wendell Hendon 
-Possession of Firearm by Felon
-Possession of Stolen Firearm x2
-Trafficking in Opium or Heroin (Level III)
-Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance within 1,000ft of a Park
-Maintain a Dwelling for Controlled Substances
-Possess Drug Paraphernalia

Editor's Note:* A criminal charge is an accusation, by law, a person accused of a crime is innocent until proven in a court of law.

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