James Curtis Denton, Explosive and Methamphetamine Convictions, North Carolina 2015

NEW BERN, North Carolina – In a shocking turn of events, a federal jury in New Bern has found James Curtis Denton guilty of conspiracy to manufacture and distribute methamphetamine and possession and transportation of an explosive by a drug user with the intent to injure or kill an individual.

According to the United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, Robert J. Higdon, Jr., Denton was named in a superseding indictment originally filed on May 3, 2016, which included a drug conspiracy with four co-defendants and other drug offenses. He was arrested shortly thereafter. While in custody and after further investigation, Denton was named in a second superseding indictment including the explosive charges on August 2, 2016.

The explosive device, an improvised explosive device (IED) constructed of PVC pipe, black powder, and pellets, was found to have been placed under the vehicle of Denton's ex-spouse's boyfriend's vehicle. The IED exploded as the victim was driving down a neighborhood street on May 28, 2015. Fortunately, the victim was unharmed. During the investigation, it was discovered that Denton was involved in drug use, and evidence regarding his motive to place the IED was revealed. Investigators and the federal prosecutor were able to tie Denton to the IED based on the statements and interviews of multiple witnesses, including a co-defendant who accompanied Denton to the neighborhood when he placed the IED.

At sentencing, Denton faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years imprisonment and a maximum of 40 years imprisonment. The investigation of this case was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Cary Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Jason Kellhofer represented the government.

Denton was named in a superseding indictment originally filed on May 3, 2016, which included a drug conspiracy with four co-defendants and other drug offenses. He was arrested shortly thereafter. While in custody and after further investigation, Denton was named in a second superseding indictment including the explosive charges on August 2, 2016.

This case highlights the dangers of drug use and the importance of holding individuals accountable for their actions. The guilty verdict in this case serves as a reminder that the consequences of such actions can be severe.

The case is still ongoing, and the outcome will be determined at sentencing. The public will be kept informed of any updates on this case.

Defendant: James Curtis Denton
Criminal Charges: Conspiracy to manufacture and distribute methamphetamine and possession and transportation of an explosive by a drug user with the intent to injure or kill an individual
City and State: New Bern, North Carolina
Date: May 28, 2015
Sentence: Mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years imprisonment and a maximum of 40 years imprisonment

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ednc/pr/federal-jury-finds-man-guilty-drug-and-explosive-offenses