After reports of a hit and run incident involving an individual leaving a property, the North Carolina Alcohol Law Enforcement Division (ALE) initiated an investigation into an illegal business in New Hill. The inquiry concluded with a search conducted at a residence where alcoholic beverages were being sold unlawfully.
On June 23, 2025, ALE, assisted by the Chatham County Sheriff’s Office, executed a search warrant at 3800 Old US-1 Hwy, New Hill, NC. This operation resulted in the seizure of spirituous liquor, malt beverages, US currency, drug paraphernalia, and four weapons.
“This was a well-coordinated operation that highlighted the strength of our interagency partnership. ALE focused on alcohol enforcement, NC Highway Patrol assisted with traffic safety and Chatham County Code Compliance ensured the search warrant was carried out safely. It’s this kind of teamwork that allows us to tackle problems from every angle and better protect the people we serve,” said Chatham County Sheriff Mike Roberson.
Following the investigation, ALE Special Agents charged James Rendell Thomas, 54, of New Hill. The charges include five counts of possessing/selling alcohol for sale without ABC permits, four counts of possession of firearm by felon, misdemeanor maintain vehicle/dwelling/place for controlled substances, and possession of marijuana paraphernalia.
The primary mission of Alcohol Law Enforcement (ALE) Special Agents is to enhance community safety by addressing criminal activity at both ABC-licensed and illegal alcohol establishments across North Carolina. ALE serves as the lead enforcement agency for the state’s alcoholic beverage control laws as well as gambling, lottery, tobacco laws and has primary authority over nuisance abatement statutes.
