Growing Marijuana, Misdemeanor Child Abuse, & Other Charges

A  Wilkes County man was arrested on multiple drug charges after Deputies found his house for growing marijuana on Ranse Staley Road in Roaring River.  Heath Hamilton age 28 was arrested and charged with drug possession, manufacture of drugs with intent to sell and deliver, maintaining dwelling for an illegal substance, and possession of drug paraphernalia.  While Deputies questioned Hamilton, he admitted to having more drugs and weapons at an apartment in Wilkesboro.  Deputies contacted Wilkesboro Police to assist with the search warrant at Cub Creek Apartments.  Kimberly Barker and two small children were in the apartment.  At first she refused to answer the door.  Officers waited outside for 3 hours before Barker finally came to the door.  While searching the apartment, Officers found drugs, guns, bow and arrows, broken glass, and other hazardous materials in the children’s bedrooms and around the apartment.  DSS was called and took custody of the children.  The two children were later released to the custody of another family member.  Both Barker and Hamilton were charged with misdemeanor child abuse.  Hamilton received additional drug charges and Barker was also charged with resisting a public officer.