On January 30, 2024, the Pamlico County Sheriff’s Office responded to a call at 338 Foxwood Trail, located in the Reelsboro Community of Pamlico County regarding an unresponsive female later identified as Jacqueline Mantia.
During the investigation, authorities determined that the cause of death was due to a drug-related overdose. Investigators identified Richard Evans as the individual responsible for delivering the controlled substance that led to Jacqueline Mantia’s fatal overdose. Evans was arrested on January 31, 2025, and charged with Death by Distribution of Controlled Substance.
In an unrelated investigation, on December 4, 2023, the Pamlico County Sheriff’s Office responded to a call at 215 Shingle Brook Road in the Olympia Community of Pamlico County in reference to an unresponsive male. Upon arrival responding deputies discovered the body of Jason Stultz deceased of an apparent drug overdose.
Following a thorough investigation, it was determined that the cause of death was a drug-related overdose. The Craven County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Unit assisted with the investigation, and through cooperation among multiple agencies, two individuals were identified as suspects.
Investigators identified Lisa Bass and Steven Smith, both residents of Craven County, as the individuals responsible for selling and delivering the controlled substance that led to the fatal overdose of Jason Stultz. Bass and Smith have been charged with Death by Distribution of Controlled Substance.
Both suspects were arrested by other agencies under the issued warrants and subsequently transferred to the Pamlico County Detention Center.
Sheriff Chris Davis made the following statement regarding the case:
“It is our goal to continue to arrest those responsible for distributing this poison to our family and friends in Pamlico County. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families that have and continue to be negatively affected by this type of behavior. Another solid investigation by the men and women of the Pamlico County Sheriff’s Office.”
The Pamlico County Sheriff’s Office urges the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity or information related to the distribution of illegal substances.
The Pamlico County Sheriff’s Office is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all citizens in Pamlico County through proactive law enforcement and community partnerships
Richard Evans, 61 from Reelsboro charged with one count of Death By Distribution of Controlled Substance, and Posses Weapon of Mass Destruction. Hughes is being held on a secured bond of $100,000.00 Bond.
Lisa Bass, 53 from Craven County charged with one count of Death By Distribution of Controlled Substance. Bass is being held on a secured bond of $100,000.00 Bond.
Steven Smith, 52 from Craven County charged with one count of Death By Distribution of Controlled Substance. Smith is being held on a secured bond of $150,000.00 Bond.
