Murphy, North Carolina has seen a significant development in its efforts to combat local nuisance activities. After enduring ongoing criminal violations and community disturbances, Murphy Police Chief Tim Lominac enlisted the help of the North Carolina Alcohol Law Enforcement Division for a civil nuisance abatement investigation at 61 W. Hollow Street.
This collaborative investigation culminated in Superior Court Judge Tessa Sellers signing a Consent Judgment and final order of abatement. The legal action was initiated by the Town of Murphy on behalf of the State of North Carolina, following guidelines set forth in Chapter 19 of the state’s General Statutes. These statutes address nuisances related to drug laws, violence, and breaches of peace, offering civil remedies to mitigate their effects on communities.
The terms outlined in the Consent Judgment require that the property be handed over to a responsible family member and remain vacant. All structures must be removed within 90 days, and future nuisance activities are prohibited. Trespassers will face arrest and criminal charges.
Bryan House, Director of North Carolina Alcohol Law Enforcement, commented on the outcome: “The nuisance abatement law is a valuable tool that provides remedies for locations consistently associated with criminal activity and harm to communities.” He expressed gratitude for the collaboration with Murphy Police Department and local citizens.
Alcohol Law Enforcement (ALE) Special Agents play a crucial role in enhancing community safety across North Carolina. With jurisdiction over ABC-licensed establishments as well as illegal operations, ALE addresses crimes involving violence or breaches of peace. It leads enforcement on alcohol control laws while holding primary authority over nuisance abatement statutes. ALE agents receive specialized training in conducting such investigations.
