A civil nuisance abatement case involving a property at 281 Andy Drive in Forest City, North Carolina, has concluded with a final judgment and order of abatement. The action follows ongoing reports of criminal activity, drug overdoses, and community complaints connected to the site.
Rutherford County Sheriff Aaron Ellenburg enlisted the support of the North Carolina Alcohol Law Enforcement (ALE) Division to investigate repeated offenses at the location. The investigation led to the filing of a civil nuisance abatement case supported by evidence from both agencies.
Superior Court Judge Thomas Davis signed a Nuisance Abatement Consent Judgment for the property, which ends the civil proceedings initiated by Rutherford County on behalf of the State of North Carolina. Under Chapter 19 of the North Carolina General Statutes, nuisance activities include drug-related crimes, recurring violence, breaches of peace, and violations involving alcohol beverage control. The statute allows for civil remedies to address such issues in communities across the state.
“I want to express my profound gratitude to the special agents of the Nuisance Abatement Team of the NC Alcohol Law Enforcement Division for their unwavering support. Their professional and diligent work in assisting us with the shutdown of a residence that has been a source of constant concern for its neighbors is a testament to the power of inter-agency cooperation,” said Sherrif Ellenburg. “This property was a hub of criminal activity, and the countless overdose and drug-related incidents created a dangerous environment. Thanks to our partnership, we have not only eliminated a public nuisance but also restored a sense of safety and peace for the families in that community.”
The consent judgment requires that all structures on the property be removed within 180 days and that it be sold once cleared. It also sets terms prohibiting future nuisance-related activities at this address. Trespassers will be subject to arrest and criminal charges.
“Our state’s nuisance abatement law is a valuable tool for helping communities deal with properties that are constant sources of criminal activity,” said ALE Director Bryan House. “We’re proud to work alongside the Rutherford County Sheriff’s Office to bring about meaningful, lasting improvements for the people of Rutherford County.”
ALE’s mission is focused on improving community safety statewide by targeting illegal activity at both licensed and unlicensed alcohol establishments. The agency enforces laws related to alcoholic beverages, gambling, lottery operations, tobacco sales, and leads enforcement efforts concerning nuisance abatement statutes. ALE special agents have specialized training in these investigations.
For more information about ALE’s role within state law enforcement: https://www.ncdps.gov/our-organization/law-enforcement/alcohol-law-enforcement
