An Onslow County man, James “Boogie” Phillips, 36, of Maysville, has been arrested and is facing multiple charges following an investigation into the overdose death of Adam Joyner, 37, of Peletier, in March 2024. The Carteret County Sheriff’s Office announced Phillips’ arrest last Friday, with charges including death by distribution of dangerous drugs.
On March 6, 2024, Joyner’s family discovered him deceased, prompting an investigation by local authorities. Preliminary toxicology reports revealed that Joyner’s cause of death was a combination of fentanyl, methadone, and ethanol toxicity. Following this, investigators collected evidence indicating that Phillips had sold fentanyl to Joyner, leading to the fatal overdose.
In addition to the charge of death by distribution of dangerous drugs, Phillips is facing charges related to the possession, sale, and distribution of controlled substances. Specifically, he is charged with possession with intent to sell, manufacture, or deliver a Schedule II controlled substance, as well as selling or delivering a Schedule II controlled substance.
Phillips is currently being held in the Carteret County Detention Center under a secured bond of $2,000,000. Authorities continue to investigate the case, which highlights the ongoing issue of dangerous drugs, including fentanyl, being distributed in the community. The arrest is part of a larger effort by law enforcement to address the rising number of overdose deaths linked to fentanyl and other opioids.
The charges against Phillips reflect the seriousness of drug distribution cases and the efforts of local authorities to hold individuals accountable for their roles in the opioid crisis.