North Wake News

On February 15, 2025, the North Carolina Alcohol Law Enforcement Division (ALE) and Lincolnton Police Department concluded a joint investigation at Dave’s, a tobacco and vape shop in Lincolnton. The store's manager, Omari David Cole, faces 20 criminal charges, including 12 felonies.

The investigation was initiated following complaints about an increase in vape products confiscated from underage students. Dave’s is situated directly across from Lincolnton High School.

During the investigation, ALE special agents discovered that Delta9 Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) products sold at Dave’s contained more than the legal limit of 0.3% THC.

In an unrelated incident on February 6, 2025, an armed robbery and shooting occurred at the same location. The Lincolnton Police Department apprehended three suspects and recovered firearms, cash, and marijuana.

Omari David Cole has been charged with multiple offenses:

- Felony delivery of marijuana (two counts)

- Felony sale of marijuana (two counts)

- Felony manufacture of Schedule VI controlled substances (two counts)

- Felony manufacture/sale/delivery/possession of controlled substances within 1,000 feet of a school (two counts)

- Felony conspiracy to sell marijuana (two counts)

- Felony conspiracy to deliver Schedule VI controlled substances (two counts)

- Misdemeanor possession of marijuana paraphernalia (two counts)

- Misdemeanor dangerous drugs possession (two counts)

- Misdemeanor maintaining a vehicle/dwelling/place for controlled substances (two counts)

- Misdemeanor simple possession of marijuana (two counts)

The investigation remains ongoing. For inquiries regarding the armed robbery and shooting incident, contact the Lincolnton Police Department.

ALE Special Agents have statewide jurisdiction in North Carolina to enhance community safety by addressing criminal activities related to alcohol establishments. They enforce laws concerning alcoholic beverages control as well as gambling, lottery, and tobacco regulations.