Old Fort Woman Charged After Children Test Positive for Drugs
MCDOWELL COUNTY, N.C. – A woman in Old Fort, North Carolina, has been charged with felony child abuse after two children tested positive for controlled substances, according to the McDowell County Sheriff’s Office. The charges stem from an investigation initiated in February 2026.
Details of the Case
Avorie West, 31, of Old Fort, is accused of exposing the children to marijuana and methamphetamine. The McDowell County Department of Social Services alerted law enforcement to the situation, leading to an investigation that confirmed the children had controlled substances in their systems. WLOS reports the incident.
Charges and Bond
West has been charged with felony exposing a child to a controlled substance. She was assigned a $150,000 secured bond, as stated by the McDowell County Sheriff’s Office. WOWT News also reported on the charges.
Related Incidents in Western North Carolina
This case occurs alongside other recent incidents in Western North Carolina. A tanker truck carrying milk overturned on I-40 near the McDowell-Burke County line on April 2, prompting a hazmat response. Fox Carolina covered this event, as well as the charges against West.
Ongoing Investigations
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the children’s exposure to drugs. Further details will be released as the investigation progresses.