CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A Charlotte man is expected to plead guilty in a massive drug ring that operated across three North Carolina universities.
Tough sentences are coming for those in the drug ring that DEA agents said profited $1.5 million and spanned three universities: the University of North Carolina, Duke and Appalachian State University.
This week, Zachre Abercrombie, 27, signed a plea agreement. He could face a minimum of four years in prison and could pay up to $5 million for dealing more than a pound of cocaine.
Legal experts told Channel 9′s Blaine Tolison that the case may be about not only stopping a large drug ring, but also about letting students know that federal agencies are investigating in and around university campuses everywhere.
Defense attorney Rick Winiker has experience with similar cases in federal court.
“The case becomes a statement to college kids: You’re not safe, even though you may be doing drugs and marijuana and things like that on campus; you’re not safe, we’re coming after you,” Winiker said.
Official in the case warned universities and fraternities to do something about drugs in and around campuses, but Winiker said it remains to be seen if it will help.
“I think it begs a broader question overall, what are we doing and why? And, how much does it cost?” Winiker said.
Abercrombie’s attorney released the following statement in Charlotte on Thursday:
“Mr. Abercrombie has accepted responsibility for his part in this offense. He is looking forward to getting this behind him and moving on with his life in a positive direction once the proceedings come to an end.”
Cox Media Group
