North Wake News

The North Carolina Alcohol Law Enforcement Division (ALE) and the Chadbourn Police Department have completed a multi-county investigation that led to the seizure of marijuana, spirituous liquor, and various controlled substances. This joint effort resulted in two search warrants being executed at a residence in Chadbourn. Three individuals were identified in connection with the case, with one person arrested on multiple felony and misdemeanor charges, while warrants remain outstanding for two others.

On February 28, 2025, ALE Special Agents observed an individual parked near the rear loading dock at Lumberton ABC Store in Robeson County. The individual, identified as James Faulk, was seen loading a significant amount of liquor into a vehicle with assistance from Collin Montes, an employee at the store. Faulk then traveled to 214 Huffham Street in Chadbourn.

During their investigation, ALE Special Agents found that Montes conspired with Faulk to steal approximately $2,000 worth of spirituous liquor from Lumberton ABC on February 28. On March 13, ALE and the Chadbourn Police Department executed search warrants at the address in Chadbourn. The operation recovered 600 bottles of spirituous liquor, 335 grams of marijuana, 3.85 grams of cocaine, 86 Adderall tablets, 63 Suboxone strips, 378 Oxycodone tablets, and 50 Methadone tablets.

“This case is a great example of how multiagency cooperation can make a positive impact on our community," said Chadbourn Police Chief Kenneth Elliott.

Charges resulting from this investigation include:

Crystal Marie Wilcox has been charged with possession of stolen goods (felony), possession for sale alcoholic beverages without an ABC permit, possession of non-tax paid liquor among other charges related to controlled substances.

James Edward Faulk faces charges including possession of stolen goods (felony), larceny (felony), conspiracy (felony), and several drug-related offenses.

Collin Michael Montes is charged with larceny by employee (felony), larceny (felony), and conspiracy (felony).

“This case underscores the versatility of ALE special agents," said ALE Director Bryan House. "We greatly value our collaborative partnerships with other law enforcement agencies."

The investigation is ongoing and additional charges are anticipated.

About ALE: The primary mission of Alcohol Law Enforcement Special Agents is to enhance community safety by addressing criminal activity at both ABC-licensed and illegal alcohol establishments across North Carolina.