Spindale Man Arrested in Major Fentanyl Trafficking Bust

Spindale, NC — On January 1, 2026, investigators with the Tri-City Violent Crimes Task Force conducted surveillance at Sterling Oaks Apartments, a location that has received multiple narcotics complaints. During the operation, a vehicle of interest was observed traveling recklessly, prompting a traffic stop on West Street in Spindale.

The driver, identified as Javier Afanador, was found to have a strong odor of marijuana in the vehicle and admitted that it had been smoked recently. Investigators also observed a large amount of cash and drug paraphernalia commonly associated with methamphetamine use.

A probable cause search of the vehicle revealed a hidden lockbox secured behind a removable panel in the center console. After gaining access to the box, investigators discovered four bags of powder fentanyl weighing approximately 25.5 grams each, totaling roughly 102 grams. Digital scales and additional drug paraphernalia, including small baggies, plastic straws, and a container with methamphetamine residue, were also recovered. $1,874 in U.S. currency, believed to be proceeds from drug sales, was seized. The total street value of the narcotics is estimated at $10,200.

Afanador was arrested and charged with trafficking in opium/heroin (fentanyl) and trafficking by transportation in opium/heroin (fentanyl). His bond was set at $400,000.

The Tri-City Violent Crimes Task Force expressed gratitude to the Spindale Police Department Patrol Division for their assistance during the traffic stop.