The Rockingham County Sheriff’s Office has arrested an Eden man on gun and drug charges. The arrest occurred on June 9 when vice narcotics detectives observed a White Audi SUV traveling at a high rate of speed on Dishmon Lp. in the Eden area and attempted to stop the vehicle.
The driver, Purvis Dion Newkirk, 50, of Eden, briefly attempted to flee from Deputies in the vehicle before pulling into a driveway and then fleeing on foot on Maryland Avenue.
Detectives seized approximately eight pounds of marijuana, a firearm, and cash from Newkirk’s vehicle. The marijuana seized has a street value of around $12,000.
Newkirk was apprehended a short while later and was charged with felony fleeing to elude, possession with intent to sell and deliver marijuana, and maintaining a vehicle for selling drugs. He was placed in the Rockingham County Detention Facility under a $15,000 secured bond.
This is an ongoing investigation. Anyone with information on illegal drug sales in Rockingham County is urged to call the Rockingham County CrimeStoppers Hotline at 336-349-9683. All callers remain anonymous and can receive up to a $1,000 cash reward for information leading to arrests.