Catawba Co. won't release texts, emails involving SBI search warrant

NEWTON, N.C. — Catawba County is refusing to release any emails, text messages or other communications involving a search warrant that the SBI executed last week at the sheriff’s office.

A spokesperson told Channel 9 a gag order prevents her from releasing the information or saying if the county asked for it to be sealed.

Channel 9 broke the story last week when Eyewitness News learned about the search warrant. The SBI is investigating whether Jason Reid, who is running for sheriff, placed a tracking device on an ex-girlfriend's car.

[RELATED: Catawba County sheriff candidate denies stalking allegations]

Reid denies the allegations, but a source told Channel 9 that the tracker belonged to the Catawba County Sheriff’s Narcotics Division, which Reid once supervised.

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