Asheville, August 3, 2025
News Summary
In response to community concerns about illegal firearms and drug activities, the Asheville Police Department conducted a coordinated operation, resulting in the arrests of two men and two juveniles. The operation saw police using drones for searches and the seizure of over 110 grams of suspected narcotics and three firearms. The individuals arrested include Adonte Dejuan Priester and Robert Lee Wingate Jr., facing multiple drug-related charges. The operation underscores the department’s efforts to enhance community safety and address public concerns regarding crime.
Asheville – The Asheville Police Department executed a coordinated operation on Thursday, resulting in the arrests of two men and two juveniles in West Asheville, prompted by community concerns regarding illegal firearms and drug-related activities. Officers utilized drones for both interior and exterior searches during the operation to enhance safety for all involved.
During the operation, police seized over 110 grams of suspected narcotics and three firearms, indicating a significant attempt to address the ongoing issue of illegal substances and weapons in the area. The individuals apprehended were identified as Adonte Dejuan Priester, 36, and Robert Lee Wingate Jr., 53, both of whom face serious charges.
Priester has been charged and booked into the Buncombe County Detention Facility, where he was later released on a written promise to appear in court, as decided by a magistrate. In contrast, Wingate was also booked into the same facility but was assigned a $5,000 secure bond for his release.
The identities of the two juveniles arrested during the operation are protected due to their ages. They remain under the custody of the Department of Juvenile Justice, reflecting the legal protocols surrounding juvenile offenders.
Context of the Operation
This operation is part of a broader initiative by the Asheville Police Department to tackle community concerns regarding the proliferation of illegal guns and drugs. The police department has been actively engaging with residents to understand the issues affecting their neighborhoods and to formulate effective responses. The use of technology, such as drones, illustrates the department’s commitment to ensuring safety while conducting searches.
In recent years, the Asheville Police Department has intensified its efforts to confront drug-related activities and gun violence in the area. The operations reflect an ongoing strategy to create a safer environment for community members and reduce the impact of illicit activities.
Community Impact
The arrests made during this operation underscore a significant law enforcement effort responding to public concerns. Community feedback has indicated high levels of distress regarding illegal activities, prompting the police to enhance their investigative tactics. This operation is expected to serve as a catalyst for further actions aimed at curbing crime and fostering trust between law enforcement and the community.
Summary of Arrests
| Name | Age | Charges | Bond Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adonte Dejuan Priester | 36 | Multiple charges related to drug possession | Released on promise to appear |
| Robert Lee Wingate Jr. | 53 | Multiple charges related to drug possession | $5,000 secure bond |
| Juvenile 1 | Unknown | Pending charges | In custody of Department of Juvenile Justice |
| Juvenile 2 | Unknown | Pending charges | In custody of Department of Juvenile Justice |
FAQs
What prompted the operation by the Asheville Police Department?
The operation was initiated in response to community concerns regarding illegal firearms and drug activities in the area.
What were the results of the operation?
Police arrested two adults and two juveniles, seizing over 110 grams of suspected narcotics and three firearms.
What are the charges against the arrested individuals?
The adults, Adonte Dejuan Priester and Robert Lee Wingate Jr., face multiple charges related to drug possession.
What happened to the juveniles arrested in the operation?
The juveniles’ identities have not been disclosed due to their ages, and they are currently in the custody of the Department of Juvenile Justice.
How is the Asheville community responding to this operation?
The operation reflects ongoing law enforcement efforts to address public concerns about crime, aiming to enhance community safety and trust.
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Additional Resources
- Fox Carolina: Police Arrest Two Men and Two Juveniles
- WYFF4: Asheville Police Arrest Teens in Guns and Drugs Operation
- WLOS: Three Arrested on Gun and Drug-Related Charges
- QC News: Six Indicted on Federal Drug and Gun Charges
- WSPA: Stolen Gun and Drugs Recovered in Asheville
- Wikipedia: Asheville
- Google Search: Asheville police operations
- Google Scholar: Asheville drug and gun charges
- Google News: Asheville police drug arrests
Author: STAFF HERE ASHEVILLE WRITER
The ASHEVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAsheville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Asheville, Buncombe County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Asheville Bread Festival, LEAF Festival, and mountain sports tournaments at Biltmore Estate. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce and Explore Asheville Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in hospitality and brewing that power the local economy such as the Biltmore Estate and Sierra Nevada Brewing Company. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, HERERaleigh.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
