On June 2, investigators with the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office Drug Unit arrested Phillip Gray Woolard, 32, of 345 Betsy Elbow Road in Washington. Woolard was charged with possession of heroin, possession of drug paraphernalia, driving while license revoked, reckless driving to endanger and driving while impaired.

Woolard’s arrest stemmed from investigators conducting surveillance on a residence involved in the distribution of heroin. Investigators witnessed Woolard arrive and depart from the residence driving a white Honda Accord. Investigators were familiar with Woolard from prior drug investigations and knew that Woolard’s license was revoked.

Investigators followed Woolard to U.S. Highway 17, where they were going to conduct a traffic stop. Woolard recognized the investigators and ran off the road twice. Woolard increased his speed to over 80 mph. Woolard starting passing cars while other cars were coming from the opposite direction. Cars coming from the opposite direction had to stop, and some had to move over to keep from being hit by Woolard.

Woolard turned into Mayo and Associates on U.S. 17 in Chocowinity and attempted to hide behind Mayo and Associates. Investigators apprehended Woolard as he exited from the Honda Accord. Investigators conducted a search and found heroin residue and syringes.

The North Carolina Highway Patrol responded and assisted in charging Woolard with driving while impaired.

Woolard was confined in the Beaufort County Detention Center under a $31,000 secured bond.