ROCKINGHAM — A narcotics investigation conducted by the Rockingham Police Department in coordination with multiple local, state and federal law enforcement agencies led to two arrests and the seizure of illegal drugs, currency and a firearm, according to a recent release shared by the department.
According to the release, on Jan. 15, 2026, at approximately 4:26 p.m., the Rockingham Police Department Vice/Narcotics Unit, Criminal Investigations Unit and Tactical Response Unit, along with the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office Community Impact Team, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Drug Enforcement Administration, executed a search warrant at a residence on Elizabeth Avenue.
During the search, investigators located and seized approximately 2.5 pounds of fentanyl, two pounds of marijuana, 142 dosage units of MDMA, 37 dosage units of oxycodone, drug paraphernalia, $694 in U.S. currency and one Glock 9mm handgun.
As a result of the investigation, Marion Ellerbe, 28, and Louise Byrd, 53, both of the residence, were arrested.
Ellerbe was charged with trafficking in fentanyl; possession with intent to manufacture, sell or deliver MDA/MDMA; possession with intent to sell or deliver marijuana; possession of a Schedule II controlled substance; maintaining a dwelling for controlled substances; possession of drug paraphernalia; and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. He was processed and transported to the Richmond County Jail, where he was held without bond due to being out on bond in South Carolina for attempted murder and murder and being under electronic monitoring at the time of his arrest.
Byrd was charged with maintaining a dwelling for controlled substances and was released on a $2,500 unsecured bond.
“The Rockingham Police Department remains committed to removing illegal narcotics from our community and holding offenders accountable. We appreciate the assistance of our partnering agencies during this operation,” said RPD in the release. “This investigation remains ongoing and additional charges may be filed. All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.”