LENOIR COUNTY, N.C. (WITN) -A six-month-long investigation into the sale of illegal drugs has landed three men in jail.

Kinston police say James Brown Jr., 56, of Lenoir County, Thomas Washington, 56, of Kinston, and Kevin Newborn, 52, of Lenoir County, were arrested after three homes in Lenoir County were searched.

During the search, police say they discovered over 5 ounces of cocaine, two firearms, ballistic body armor, cash, and numerous drug paraphernalia items.

Brown is charged with trafficking cocaine, possession of a firearm by felon, six counts of possession with intent to sell/ deliver, five counts of felony maintain dwelling, and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Washington is charged with four counts of possession with intent to sell/deliver cocaine and four counts of felony maintain dwelling.

Newborn was charged with two counts of possession to sell/deliver marijuana and two counts of felony maintain dwelling.

Police say Lenoir County deputies and Lenoir County ABC officers helped with the searches.