By Charlotte Smith Kenneth Clark, Bladen County Fire Marshal confirmed Monday afternoon arrests have been made in relation to the recent arson fires over the weekend. “Friday, starting about 4:30 in afternoon we had three structure fires in Bladen County and one structure fire in Columbus County,” Clark said. There was a vehicle that was […]
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Sheriff’s Office and Department of Social Services Launch Joint Operation Sheriff James A. McVicker said his office working jointly with members of the Department of Social Services Child Support Unit began an early morning operation on Monday, June 10th that has so far resulted in the arrest of 13 individuals on 16 cases of Child […]
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Multiple defendants arrested for selling illegal controlled substances
bladenonline 06/14/2019 0 COMMENTSThe Bladen County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Unit has completed an investigation into the distribution of Controlled Substances in the Tar Heel area of Bladen County. During the investigation, it was determined by the Bladen County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Unit that the below listed individuals were responsible for distributing Controlled Substances. This investigation originated from citizen […]
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The Bladen County Sheriff’s Office released three photos on Thursday evening in reference to an attempted larceny of a dog and a breaking and entering case in Clarkton. The photos were taking on Monday, June 10th, around 8:20 p.m. The Sheriff’s office is asking for the public’s assistance. The office stated, “We would like to […]
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New Bern Man Sentenced to 35 Years in Federal Prison for Multi-Year Heroin and Marijuana Conspiracy
bladenonline 06/13/2019 0 COMMENTSNEW BERN – United States Attorney Robert J. Higdon, Jr. announced that in federal court, before Chief United States District Judge Terrence W. Boyle, CALVIN MARK WILSON, also known as “Bali,” 35, of New Bern, North Carolina was sentenced to 35 years (420 months) in federal prison for conspiring to distribute and possess with the intent to […]
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St. Pauls Man Sentenced to 14 Years in Prison for Cocaine Distribution and Firearm Offenses
bladenonline 06/11/2019 0 COMMENTSRALEIGH – The United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, Robert J. Higdon, Jr., announced that today in federal court, Chief United States District Judge Terrence W. Boyle sentenced MARCUS ANTONIO BLANKS, 32, of Saint Pauls, North Carolina, to 168 months in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release. On February 6, 2019, BLANKS pleaded […]
READ MORESouth Carolina Man Sentenced for Attempting to Provide Material Support to ISIS
bladenonline 06/11/2019 0 COMMENTSZakaryia Abdin, 20, of Ladson, South Carolina, was sentenced yesterday to 20 years to be followed by a lifetime of supervised release for attempting to provide material support to the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham (ISIS), a designated foreign terrorist organization. Abdin previously entered a guilty plea in August of 2018 and has remained […]
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By Charlotte Smith There was a shooting in Elizabethtown leaving two victims wounded early Friday morning on Della Street in Elizabethtown. On Monday afternoon the Elizabethtown Police Department released a statement about one arrest in the case. On the day of the shooting, Sergeant Detective T. Davis with Elizabethtown Police Department said one victim was […]
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Rodriquez D. McNeil of Elizabethtown has been charged with murder in the shooting death of a Fayetteville convenience store cashier, according to the Fayetteville Police Department McNeil, 23, of the 800 block of Thompson Avenue, had warrants drawn Friday for first degree murder, robbery with a dangerous weapon and conspiracy to commit robbery with a […]
READ MOREEx-school administrator, bus driver charged with sex crimes – The Fayetteville Observer
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Arrests and suspects wanted by Bladen County Sheriff’s Narcotics Unit
bladenonline 06/07/2019 0 COMMENTSThe Bladen County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Unit completed an investigation into the distribution of Controlled Substances in the Bladenboro area of Bladen County. Agents conducted undercover purchases from the defendants in these investigations where prescription medication (Xanax and Oxycodone) were purchased, according to the Sheriff’s report. At the conclusion of this investigation, the defendants were arrested and […]
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By Charlotte Smith There was a shooting in Elizabethtown leaving two victims wounded early Friday morning on Della Street. Sergeant Detective T. Davis with Elizabethtown Police Department said one victim has been transported to Cape Fear Valley hospital and is in critical condition. Another victim of the shooting received a flesh wound. Several rounds struck […]
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One person died and two others were critically injured Thursday afternoon when the vehicle they were traveling in ran a stop sign and crashed into a tractor-trailer near Chadbourn in Columbus County, according to the N.C. Highway Patrol and published reports. The wreck happened about 1:30 p.m. on N.C. 410, according to reports. The identities […]
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By Charlotte Smith A suspect described as a slender, white, well spoken, short-haired male is still wanted for a home invasion robbery according to Investigator Greg Bullard with the Bladen County Sheriff’s Office. However, Investigator Bullard had a few updates in the case and is asking for the public’s assistance. The male suspect involved in […]
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By Charlotte Smith On Sunday, May 26 a blue, female, pit bull dog was stolen from the area of Chicken Foot Road and Calvin Tyson Road in St. Pauls near Tar Heel, according to the owner. Investigator Greg Bullard with the Bladen County Sheriff’s Office is asking for the public’s assistance. There have been two […]
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By Charlotte Smith On Sunday a blue, female, pit bull dog was stolen from the area of Chicken Foot Road and Calvin Tyson Road in St. Pauls near Tar Heel, according to the owner. Investigator Greg Bullard with the Bladen County Sheriff’s Office is asking for the public’s assistance. “I think some of the people […]
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Whiteville men convicted in Lumberton Bank Robbery and firing weapon at law enforcement
bladenonline 05/30/2019 0 COMMENTSRALEIGH – United States Attorney Robert J. Higdon, Jr. announced that today, Daquan Madrid Pridgen, 27, of Whiteville, North Carolina was convicted in federal court following a three-day trial before Chief United States District Judge Terrence W. Boyle. The jury found Pridgen guilty of bank robbery, discharging a firearm in furtherance of a bank robbery, […]
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Columbus County Sheriff’s Office unusual discovery of methamphetamine
bladenonline 05/30/2019 0 COMMENTSColumbus County, NC – On May 18, 2019, Columbus County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) conducted a checking station in the Chadbourn community. During the checking station, a 1999 Honda passenger car approaching the checking station abruptly turned in the middle of the road and began traveling North on Joe Brown Highway. A CCSO Deputy pursued the […]
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On May 23, 2019 officers with the Elizabethtown Police Department executed a search warrant at 111 W. Mckay Street in Elizabethtown. The search warrant was obtained after conducting numerous hours of surveillance and citizens complaints of suspected illegal activity at the residence, according to Detective Sgt. W.Thompson with the police department. Prior to the search […]
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The man wanted in connection with a robbery and carjacking of an Elizabethtown Middle School bus driver in the predawn hours at the school was arrested Friday in Fayetteville, according to Bladen County Sheriff James McVicker. Michael Darrell Smith, also known as Pooh Daddy, was booked into the Cumberland County Detention Center on an outstanding […]
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Wilmington business owner sentenced after found guilty of involuntary manslaughter
bladenonline 05/24/2019 0 COMMENTSDavid Wayne Gore of Wilmington was found guilty Thursday of involuntary manslaughter in the shooting death of a man in a lumber yard in Kelly in 2017. Friday morning Gore was sentenced in Bladen County Superior Court. Gore, 57, who is the owner of Gore Marine in Wilmington, had been charged with murder. Gore was […]
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NEW BERN — A Lumberton man could serve more than seven years in prison after he was sentenced Thursday in federal court on possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, according to a news release. Frederick Beverly, 41 pled guilty to the charge in January, says Robert J. Hidgon Jr., who is the U.S. […]
READ MOREDavid Wayne Gore of Wilmington was found guilty Thursday of involuntary manslaughter in the shooting death of a man in a lumber yard in Kelly in 2017. Gore, 57, who is the owner of Gore Marine in Wilmington, had been charged with murder. A sentencing hearing is expected to be held Friday in Bladen County […]
READ MOREBy Charlotte Smith The trial for a Wilmington man who is charged in the 2017 Christmas weekend shooting death of Allen W. Blanchard, 34, also of Wilmington started Monday in the Bladen County Superior Court . David Wayne Gore, 54, owner of Gore Marine in Wilmington, was charged with felony second degree murder for the […]
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RALEIGH – On Wednesday, May 22, 2019 at approximately 3:26 a.m., the State Highway Patrol stopped to check on a Chevrolet SUV that was parked stationary on the shoulder of I-40 near mile marker 340 in Sampson County. During the course of the investigation, the driver of the Chevrolet pointed a gun at the trooper. As […]
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Multiple suspects wanted and arrested by Narcotics Unit with Bladen County Sheriff’s Office
bladenonline 05/22/2019 0 COMMENTSThe Bladen County Sheriff’s Office announced today there were multiple suspects arrested and some are still wanted by Sheriff Jim McVicker and his team members with the Vice/Narcotics Unit, the Criminal Investigative Division, and the K-9 Unit. Some of the charges listed included heroin, cocaine, and selling controlled substances 1,000 feet from school grounds. The […]
READ MOREMorgan County man convicted on federal hate crime charges INDIANAPOLIS – United States Attorney Josh J. Minkler announced that Nolan Brewer, 21, of Eminence, Indiana, was sentenced in federal court yesterday evening to three years in prison for conspiring to violate the civil rights of Congregation Shaarey Tefilla, a Jewish synagogue in Carmel, Indiana. Brewer […]
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Report update at 1:54 p.m. by Bladen County Sheriff’s Office Suspect Named In Car Jacking Incident Elizabethtown Middle School Sheriff James A. McVicker said a suspect has now been named and warrants obtained after a school bus driver was robbed at gunpoint before day Monday, May 20th. McVicker said the incident occurred at approximately 4:15 […]
READ MORERALEIGH — Joseph Anthony Vaught was sentenced to 150 months in prison Thursday in federal court on drug charges following an undercover investigation that began in late 2016. Vaught, 29, of Wilmington, also was sentenced to five years of supervised probation following his release from custody, according to U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of […]
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Sheriff warns parents: monitor children’s social media, social media post leads to arrest
bladenonline 05/14/2019 0 COMMENTSWhiteville, NC –The Columbus County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) Vice-Narcotics Unit arrested one individual on May 07, 2019, at the conclusion of an investigation. This investigation was initiated as the result of social media posts. Columbus County Sheriff’s Office Vice-Narcotics Unit received information that a student was advertising the sale of prescription medication on a social […]
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By Charlotte Smith A suspect described as a slender, white, well spoken, short-haired male is wanted for a home invasion robbery according to Investigator Greg Bullard with the Bladen County Sheriff’s Office. The crime took place on Owen Hill Road in Elizabethtown, Friday, May 3. Announced Tuesday afternoon, a reward is now being offered for […]
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Friday evening the the Bladen County Sheriff’s Office announced an arrest made by Bladen County Sheriff’s Office Vice/Narcotics Unit involving cocaine. The arrest was in the Kelly area. Following is the information released from the Sheriff’s Office. The Bladen County Sheriff’s Office Vice/Narcotics Unit and K-9 Unit conducted a warrantless search at the residence of […]
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A Bladenboro man was sentenced up to 26 years Thursday after entering a guilty plea to second degree murder in the shooting death of Crystal McLamb of Tar Heel in 2016. Kelly Dwayne Hamilton, 47, of Bladenboro, entered the plea Wednesday in Bladen County Superior Court, according to the Bladen County District Attorney’s Office. He […]
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Bladen County law enforcement announces arrests and wanted suspects
bladenonline 04/30/2019 0 COMMENTSThe Bladen County Sheriff’s Office, Vice/Narcotics Unit, K-9 Unit, and the North Carolina Probation and Parole Searches yielded multiple arrests and charges in April according to a recent press release. The Bladen County Sheriff’s Office released the following reports in reference to the arrests and charges. The Bladen County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Unit conducted a […]
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Contributed CHECKING STATION Whiteville, NC – On April 27, 2019, Columbus County Sheriff’s Office joined forces with neighboring law enforcement agencies to conduct a checking station on Highway 130 near Ervin T. Richardson Road in the Old Dock community. The goal of this combined enforcement effort was to ensure compliance of the motor vehicle codes […]
READ MOREWHITEVILLE – Two Whiteville men were arrested Friday morning following a three-month investigation, according to a release from the Columbus County Sheriff’s Office Vice-Narcotics Unit. The investigation because of a several citizen complaints. Andrew Johnson, 30, of Greenfield Estates Road, has been charged with two counts each of possession of a firearm by a felon […]
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Report from Bladen County Sheriff’s Office on arrests involving cocaine, distributing near school, larceny and more
bladenonline 04/26/2019 0 COMMENTSBladen County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Unit Makes Multiple Arrests The Bladen County Sheriff’s Office Vice/Narcotics Unit has completed multiple investigations into the sale and delivery of controlled substances throughout Bladen County. These investigations were initiated after numerous community complaints. After the completion of these investigations, the following individuals were arrested by the Bladen […]
READ MORESchool Owner Indicted for Defrauding Department of Veterans Affairs Program Dedicated to Rehabilitating Disabled Military Veterans
bladenonline 04/23/2019 0 COMMENTSContributed The owner of a physical security school has been indicted by a federal grand jury for defrauding a U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) program dedicated to rehabilitating military veterans with service-connecting disabilities and for making false statements to the VA. Assistant Attorney General Brian A. Benczkowski of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. […]
READ MORESouth Carolina homicide suspect and kidnapping victim found deceased
bladenonline 04/23/2019 0 COMMENTSContributed Tabor City, NC –According to the City of Pickens Police Department, on April 16, 2019, Rebecca Marie Purry went to the Police Department to report that her ex-boyfriend, Marco Murice Vaught, 36, had threatened to come to her house and get her. On April 17th, at approximately 1:00 am, the City of Pickens Police […]
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Contributed The following events were conducted on Saturday, April 20, 2019 by the Bladen County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Unit. The Bladen County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Unit and North Carolina Alcohol Law Enforcement conducted a knock and talk at 1581 MLK Drive, Elizabethtown. A consent search was conducted and a verbal warning was issued in reference […]
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The Elizabethtown Police Department is seeking the public’s help in identifying a person. According to Lt. Mark McMichael, the police department wants to speak with him regarding a larceny that occurred at the Elizabethtown Walmart store on Friday. The suspect is described as a white male with red hair and what appears to be tattoos on […]
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RALEIGH – Robert J. Higdon, Jr., the United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, announces that Chief United States District Judge Terrence W. Boyle sentenced TYRA MAKAVA WATSON, 19, of Lumberton to 144 months’ imprisonment, followed by 5 years of supervised released, and BOBBY PRESTON MCNAIR, 26, of Lumberton to 184 months’ […]
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By Erin Smith A series of suspicious fires that ocurred in February and March remain under investigation near Dublin, according to the Bladen County Fire Marshal’s Office. “We’ve got some persons of interest,” said Bladen County Fire Marshal Kenneth Clark. “We’re still looking, watching and waiting.” The series of fires all ocurred within a mile […]
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Wilmington Man Who Supplied Cocaine to Bloods Street Gang Sentenced to 6 1/2 Years in Federal Prison
bladenonline 04/17/2019 0 COMMENTSRALEIGH – The United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, Robert J. Higdon, Jr., announced that United States District Judge James C. Dever III, sentenced Rufus Lamar Parker, 28, of Wilmington to 78 months’ imprisonment, followed by 3 years of supervised release. On July 9, 2018, Parker pled guilty to six counts […]
READ MORETwo Bladen Men enter guilty pleas in Bladen County Superior Court
bladenonline 04/08/2019 0 COMMENTSBy Erin Smith Two Bladen County men entered guilty pleas on Monday in Bladen County Superior Court Criminal Session. One pled guilty to trafficking in heroin while another pled guilty to a shooting. Monte Williams, of Bladenboro, was sentenced to 90 to 120 months in prison after he pled guilty to one count of […]
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On Thursday, April 04 at approximately 1:00 p.m., the State Highway Patrol stopped a Nissan passenger vehicle for traveling 96 mph in a 55 mph zone on US 70 near Edwards Rd in Johnston County. During the course of the traffic stop, an altercation ensued with the driver of the Nissan, who was armed with […]
READ MOREWILMINGTON – United States Attorney Robert J. Higdon, Jr. announced the conclusion of OCDETF Operation “Tooth Fairy”. An Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) is a joint federal, state, and local cooperative approach to combatting drug trafficking and is the nation’s primary tool for disrupting and dismantling major drug trafficking organizations, targeting national and […]
READ MOREBy Erin Smith Two court cases of interest in Bladen County now have trial dates for Bladen County Superior Court. A third case has not yet received a trial date. The case of David Wayne Gore of Wilmington has been assigned a trial date of May 9, 2019. Gore, who is the owner of Gore’s Marine […]
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The Elizabethtown Police Department along with agents of the North Carolina Probation and Parole and the Bladen County Sheriff Deputies effected the arrest of Curtis Sanders Cromartie today in the area of Jasmine Lane in Bladen County. Cromartie was wanted by the Elizabethtown Police Department for the following felony charges: Assault With a Deadly Weapon […]
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The Bladen County Sheriff’s Office Vice/Narcotics Unit and North Carolina Probation and Parole conducted a probation search on Monday, April 1, at the residence of Christian McCullum, located at 8336 Mercer Mill Brown Marsh Road, Clarkton. Law enforcement officers were directed to the aforementioned residence after community complaints were received that residents of this location […]
READ MOREBy Erin Smith Bladen County District Court held criminal sessions on Thursday and Friday. Several drug-related cases were continued in both sessions. On Thursday, Trista Desselle appeared before Judge Ashley Gore and had her case continued to April 5th. She is facing charges of misdemeanor possession of marijuana up to 1/2 ounce and misdemeanor possession of marijuana […]
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Update: Robeson Deputy Struck by pick up truck near I-95 suffers concussion
bladenonline 03/30/2019 0 COMMENTSBy Erin Smith A Robeson County Sheriff’s Deputy who was struck by a pick up truck early Friday morning was reported to have suffered a concussion and no broken bones on Friday afternoon. An update issued by the Robeson County Sheriff’s Office indicated that Detective Matt Lassiter remains hospitalized in Florence, SC on Friday afternoon. Detective Lassiter was redirecting […]
READ MORERobeson County Sheriff’s Deputy struck by pick up truck near I-95
bladenonline 03/29/2019 0 COMMENTSBy Erin Smith A Robeson County Sheriff’s Deputy was struck by a vehicle and seriously injured on Highway 301 early Friday morning while directing traffic, according to the Robeson County Sheriff’s Office. The deputy was airlifted from the scene to the hospital. Robeson County Sheriff Burnis Wilkins issued a release on his Facebook page: “On […]
READ MOREBy Erin Smith The court date for the driver who is accused of damaging the Garden of Memories Cemetery in Kelly is set for May 1. Allanda Darine Parrish, 66, of Elizabethtown, appeared in Bladen County District Criminal Court on Monday. She is facing charges of driving while impaired, reckless driving to endanger, and revoked […]
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Probation Assist Yields Multiple Charges, Drugs, Money, And Stolen Firearm
bladenonline 03/28/2019 0 COMMENTSThe Bladen County Sheriff’s Office Vice/Narcotics Unit, K-9 Unit, and North Carolina Probation and Parole conducted a probation search at the residence of Laquile Davis and Heather Hunt, located at 2794 Hwy 20, Saint Pauls, North Carolina. Law Enforcement Officers were directed to the aforementioned residence after community complaints were received that Davis could possibly […]
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Wanted and arrested: Lock up for those involved with heroin, cocaine, ecstasy or other controlled substances
bladenonline 03/27/2019 0 COMMENTSBy Charlotte Smith The Bladen County Sheriff’s Office announced arrests and persons wanted by the Narcotics Unit on Wednesday morning. Individuals involved with heroin, cocaine, ecstasy and/or other controlled substances have been arrested or are wanted by the Sheriff’s office. Not only are there drug related charges in this report, but some of those wanted […]
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The Bladen County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Unit has completed an investigation into the distribution of controlled substances in the Tar Heel area of Bladen County. During the investigation, it was determined by the Bladen County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Unit that the below listed primary defendant was responsible for distributing controlled substances. This investigation originated from […]
READ MOREBy Erin Smith Several court cases of interest in Bladen County were continued last week in Bladen County District Criminal Court in Elizabethtown. Judge Nancy Phillips presided over the proceedings which were conducted on Wednesday. Attorney Oscar Blanks made an appearance on behalf of Daniel James Storie and Daniel Paul Storie who operated Freddie’s on […]
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Chauncy Askew arrested for Trooper Conner’s murder accused of stabbing inmate
bladenonline 03/23/2019 0 COMMENTSLumberton, NC – Chauncy Askew was housed at Robeson County Detention Center in Lumberton for the October 2018 homicide of Trooper Kevin Conner according to the Columbus County Sheriff’s Office. The Sheriff’s office gave the following report, “On March 20, 2019, Askew and another male inmate were in a common area of the Robeson County […]
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WECT: Teen charged in killing of NC trooper now accused of stabbing inmate
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Updated: No charges filed in crash involving pedestrian on US 701
bladenonline 03/22/2019 0 COMMENTSBy Erin Smith No charges will be filed in a crash that killed a pedestrian, according to the North Carolina Highway Patrol. According to Trooper Freeman, Ricky Gonzalez, 18, of Asheboro, was struck while he was walking in the northbound lane of US 701. Trooper Freeman said Michael Casey Smith, 26, of Harrells, was driving […]
READ MOREStaff report A West Bladen High School student died from injuries he sustained in a wreck on Butler Mill Road occurring on Sunday, March 10 at 1:50 p.m., according to the North Carolina Highway Patrol (NCHP). Charges have been filed against the underage driver according to the NCHP report. Media reports on Monday, March 11 […]
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Update on Assault of Correctional Officer at Harnett Correctional Institution
bladenonline 03/19/2019 0 COMMENTSRALEIGH – The Department of Public Safety confirms that Correctional Officer Mary Crosby was assaulted by an offender at approximately 10:05 a.m. today at Harnett Correctional Institution. Crosby, a 17-year-veteran, suffered non-life-threatening injuries when attacked in a housing dorm by a male offender armed with a homemade weapon. According to staff who have spoken with Officer […]
READ MOREBy Erin Smith Three suspicious fires remain under investigation near Dublin, according to the Bladen County Fire Marshal’s Office. “We’ve got some persons of interest,” said Bladen County Fire Marshal Kenneth Clark. The first suspicious fire occurred when an unoccupied home on NC 410 burned near West Bladen High School on Tuesday, February 5th, and […]
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By Charlotte Smith A Tar Heel man was charged this week with Indecent Liberties with a minor according to Chief Deputy Larry Guyton with the Bladen County Sheriff’s Department. The report was filed in November of 2018. The District Attorney’s office requested a medical exam (CME) of the victim be completed. The exam had no […]
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A vehicle that was parked on Gooden Street resulted in the arrest of the vehicle’s owner on drug related charges. On Monday, March 11th, 2019, the Elizabethtown Police Department with the assistance of Probation & Parole and the Bladen County Sheriff’s Department discovered 112.3 grams of Marijuana packaged for sale and over $1,000 dollars upon […]
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A parking violation led to one person being issued a citation for marijuana by the Elizabethtown Police Department. While on patrol, Patrolman Todd came into contact with a vehicle parked illegally in a handicap parking spot near Wash Tubs, according to Lt. Mark McMichael. Patrolman Todd stopped to speak with the driver, Janiya Hicks, about […]
READ MORECourt Date Notifications and Reminders for Criminal Cases Now Available via Text and Email
bladenonline 03/13/2019 0 COMMENTSRALEIGH – The N.C. Judicial Branch has launched a new court date notification service allowing you to quickly and easily subscribe to up-to-the-minute criminal court date notifications and reminders via email or SMS/text messages at www.NCcourts.gov/services. Subscribers are immediately notified of court date, room or session changes, as well as upcoming court date reminders seven days and one […]
READ MOREFederal subpoena issued in 9th Congressional District investigation
bladenonline 03/12/2019 0 COMMENTSBy Erin Smith A federal grand jury for the Eastern District of North Carolina is now investigating potential election fraud that occurred in the 9th Congressional District race. A federal grand jury subpoena was issued to the NC State Board of Elections on Tuesday morning requesting all documents and records regarding the State Board of Election’s investigation […]
READ MOREThe Bladen County Sheriff’s Office announced the arrest of 12 people Tuesday following investigations into the sale and delivery of controlled substances throughout the county. Two of those charged had bonds set at more than $1 million. Sheriff Jim McVicker said the investigations were initiated after several complaints from citizens. McVicker added that anyone […]
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An Elizabethtown man is recovering from a gunshot wound he received on Monday and another man is being held on attempted murder charges, according to the Elizabethtown Police Department. The Elizabethtown Police Department received a 911 call of a subject shot in the area of James Street near Della Street in Elizabethtown around 11 am […]
READ MOREBy Erin Smith A fifth individual has been arrested following an investigation into election fraud in Bladen County. The arrests are the result of a lengthy investigation into absentee ballot irregularities in Bladen County. Rebecca D. Thompson was arrested on Thursday evening after turning herself in at the Bladen County Sheriff’s Office. Thompson has been charged with […]
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The Columbus County Sheriff’s Office SWAT Team executed a search Warrant at the 701 Business Center located at 2388 James B White Highway North in Whiteville. During the search warrant, Columbus County Sheriff’s Office seized approximately $8,000.00 in cash, over 80 video gaming machines, and approximately 10 flat screen televisions. On Monday, March 4, 2019, […]
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Residents Warned of Phone Scam Using Sheriff’s Office As Scare Tactic
bladenonline 03/07/2019 0 COMMENTSSheriff James A. McVicker is warning the public of several phone scams where individuals are using the Sheriff’s Office as a cover to gain personal information. “We have had several calls from the public asking if this office can provide further information on calls they have received,” said McVicker. “We are telling everyone that this […]
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By Erin Smith Four individuals have now been arrested following an investigation into election fraud in Bladen County. A fifth individual who was indicted has not yet been arrested. “The SBI is working with local law enforcement to arrest Rebecca D. Thompson in connection to this investigation,” Anjanette Grube, Public Information Officer with the North […]
READ MOREBy Erin Smith Several drug-related cases were on the docket for Wednesday’s session of Bladen County Criminal District Court. During the session, several drug-related charges were dismissed and 17 cases were continued to the April session. Sharonda Stevens accepted a plea arrangement through her Attorney Goldston Womble. Stevens pled guilty to one count of possession […]
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By Erin Smith Two Bladen County men pled guilty to charges stemming from a series of break-ins that ocurred at several Bladen County hog farms in the fall of 2018. Wesley Carroll was sentenced by Superior Court Judge Croom to 77 to 105 months in prison after he pled guilty to one count of felony […]
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A Kelly man was sentenced to 13 years in prison for his role in home invasion that ocurred in Elizabethtown. Marcus Blake, 35, entered guilty pleas to robbery with a dangerous weapon, first degree burglary, and possession of firearm by felon in Bladen County Superior Court on Monday. Blake was sentenced by Judge Croom to […]
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By Erin Smith Following the raid and closing of four video gaming establishments in Bladen County last week, some of our readers have asked what it is that makes the games illegal. The answer to that is not so easy. “Video gaming and gambling in general is a grey area and everyone interprets this area […]
READ MOREBy Erin Smith A second arrest has been made in the investigation into election fraud and absentee ballot irregularities in Bladen County. Caitlyn Croom is the second individual to be arrested. According to the NC State Bureau of Investigation (NC SBI), she was arrested in New Hanover County on Sunday at 11:30 a.m. Croom is […]
READ MOREBy Erin Smith Two court cases of interest in Bladen County were on the docket in Bladen County Superior Court on Monday, March 4, 2019. Judge Croom presided over the court proceedings on Monday. The case of Delane Jackson, a former Bladenboro Town Manager, was on the docket on Monday. Defense Attorney Butch Pope addressed […]
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By Erin Smith A Bladen County man who was involved in a six-hour standoff with law enforcement in November 2017, could be facing a trial in July. MacKenzie Brisson was in Bladen County Superior Court along with his defense attorney, Butch Pope on Monday. As Brisson’s case was called by Judge Croom Pope addressed the […]
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Contributed Friday and Saturday night, ALE special agents arrested more than 123 people for alcohol, drug, firearm, and gambling charges during a state-wide crackdown in partnership with local, state and federal agencies. Each of the eight districts targeted violence and illegal activity anywhere alcohol was sold – whether legally or illegally. “ALE’s primary mission is to […]
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By Charlotte Smith Two individuals are accused of stealing from a local farmer and other surrounding areas. One Wednesday a man was caught taking down cameras from a local farmer. The individual captured on camera, along with another passenger is accused of stealing approximately $600 worth of security cameras and solar panels according to farm […]
READ MORENorth Carolina Mental Health Company Owner Sentenced to 60 Months in Prison on Health Care Fraud and Tax Evasion Charges
bladenonline 03/02/2019 0 COMMENTSContributed The owner of a North Carolina mental health company was sentenced to prison today for the submission of false claims to Medicaid and tax evasion, announced Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Richard E. Zuckerman of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and U.S. Attorney Matthew G.T. Martin for the Middle District of North Carolina. Catinia […]
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Video Gaming Crackdown leads to 3 arrests, 5 establishments closed
bladenonline 03/01/2019 0 COMMENTSContributed The Bladen County Sheriff’s Office Vice/Narcotics Unit and North Carolina Alcohol Law Enforcement have completed an investigation into illegal video gambling operations throughout Bladen County. During the investigation, it was determined that the below listed locations were operating as illegal gambling establishments. This investigation originated from citizen complaints which prompted Vice/Narcotics Agents to the […]
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By Erin Smith Following the indictment and arrest of McCrae Dowless for his role in an absentee ballot operation in the 2016 election and in the 2018 primary, others could be facing charges as well. According to reports, four other individuals who assisted Dowless in his campaign efforts in 2016 are also potentially facing charges. […]
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By Erin Smith An Elizabethtown woman was charged for damaging a cemetery in the Kelly community on Monday. The Garden of Memories cemetery located on NC 53 in the Kelly community suffered an estimated $3,000 in damages in the incident. Bladen County Sheriff’s Office Chief Deputy Larry Guyton said damages occurred to five tombstones when […]
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Contributed A traffic stop by the Elizabethtown Police Department on Tuesday resulted in an arrest on an outstanding warrant. Sgt. Butler was conducting a downtown patrol after businesses were closed. when he came in to contact with a vehicle parked in the area, according to Lt. Mark McMichael with the Elizabethtown Police Department. As the […]
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Contributed Elizabethtown police officers responded to the area of Smith Circle, Benjamin Manor apartments, on Monday night where it was reported man was shooting at a vehicle. As Sgt. Vause arrived several residents of the area were shouting “he has a gun” to Sgt. Vause and pointing at a man who was fleeing the area, […]
READ MOREBy Erin Smith A former union official with the United Food and Commercial Workers Local Union 1208 entered a plea of guilty on Tuesday in the Eastern District of North Carolina federal court. Terry Slaughter, 48, who served as the secretary-treasurer, entered a guilty plea to one count of embezzlement of labor union assets. As […]
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By Erin Smith McCrae Dowless has been indicted by a grand jury in Raleigh and arrested on several charges resulting from his handling of absentee ballots in the 2016 general election and 2018 primary election. According to the NC State Bureau of Investigation (NC SBI), Dowless was arrested without incident at his Bladenboro residence on Wednesday […]
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Heroin charges dismissed, felony reduced to misdemeanor and 11 cases continued
bladenonline 02/25/2019 0 COMMENTSBy Erin Smith Several drug-related cases were on the docket for Monday’s session of Bladen County Criminal District Court. During the session, several heroin charges were dismissed, one felony charge for larceny of a motor vehicle was reduced to a misdemeanor and 11 cases were continued to the next session. Christen Diamond Russ, 23, accepted a […]
READ MOREArraignment date for former Elizabethtown doctor and girlfriend rescheduled
bladenonline 02/22/2019 0 COMMENTSBy Erin Smith An arraignment hearing for a former Elizabethtown doctor and his girlfriend has been moved to June. The arraignment hearing for Dr. Jong Whan Kim and his former girlfriend Tammy Thompson was originally scheduled to take place on March 12, has been rescheduled to June 4, 2019 in New Bern. Dr. Kim and Thompson are alleged to […]
READ MORETabor City man sentenced on charge for felon in possession of a firearm
bladenonline 02/21/2019 0 COMMENTSRALEIGH – United States Attorney Robert J. Higdon, Jr. announced that in federal court, United States District Judge James C. Dever III sentenced Brian David Riggins, 26, from Tabor City, North Carolina, to 84 months in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release. Riggins was charged in an indictment filed in the Eastern District […]
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Bladen County Opioid Task Force announces Substance Abuse Initiative Liaison
bladenonline 02/20/2019 0 COMMENTSBy Charlotte Smith Bladen County’s Opioid Task Force met this month to discuss many components in the fight against opioid and drug abuse. UNC Project ECHO, Southeastern Carolina Crossroads, strategic planning and the new Substance Abuse Initiative Liaison program were all topics metaphorically bearing fruit during the meeting. Two church members from White Lake Baptist […]
READ MOREAsh, N.C. Man Sentenced to 120 Months in Prison for Drug Trafficking & Firearm Offense
bladenonline 02/20/2019 0 COMMENTSRALEIGH – The United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, Robert J. Higdon, Jr., announced that today in federal court, Chief United States District Judge Terrence W. Boyle sentenced VICTOR DEMETRIOUS WATSON, 27, of Ash, North Carolina, to 120 months in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release. WATSON was charged […]
READ MOREBy Erin Smith Two court cases of interest in Bladen County will be on the docket in Bladen County Superior Court on Monday, March 4, 2019. The case of Delane Jackson, a former Bladenboro Town Manager, is expected to be present in Bladen County Superior Court. He is charged with one felony count of obtaining property […]
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Sheriff Jim McVicker of Bladen County announced more drug arrests made with joint agency efforts. Arrests involving cocaine, narcotics and marijuana were all part of what the Sheriff announces as the “Valentines Roundup”. On February 14, 2019, the Bladen County Sheriff’s Office with the assistance of the Bladenboro Police Department executed a search warrant at […]
READ MOREMan charged in killing of Trooper indicted for first-degree murder in 2016 death
bladenonline 02/14/2019 0 COMMENTSBy Erin Smith A Columbus County man charged in the shooting death of NC Highway Patrol Trooper Kevin Conner was indicted by the Columbus County Grand Jury on Thursday morning on a first-degree murder charge for a murder that took place in 2016. Chauncey Askew, of Chadbourn, was indicted on a first-degree murder charge in […]
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