YANCEY COUNTY, N.C. (828newsNOW) — A California woman was arrested on drug charges Sunday in the Pensacola community. Yancey County authorities said Kelly Daly, a California resident, had reportedly been in Yancey County under the guise of volunteering for the Tropical Storm Helene recovery effort.
Daly was charged with trafficking cocaine and possession with intent to manufacture, sell and distribute cocaine after deputies discovered nearly 1 kilogram of cocaine.
Sheriff Shane Hilliard expressed concern and caution to the community.
“While most volunteers are here to genuinely help our community recover, there are, unfortunately, individuals and groups who do not have our best interests at heart,” Hilliard said in a news release. “I urge residents to thoroughly vet organizations and individuals offering assistance. Look for established groups with 501(c)(3) nonprofit status to ensure your safety and the integrity of the recovery effort.”