North Raleigh Today

After a series of criminal violations, drug overdose deaths, and community complaints, the Rowan County Sheriff requested assistance from the Alcohol Law Enforcement Division to address issues at a property on 660 Sides Road in Salisbury. This collaboration led to Superior Court Judge Penn Broyhill signing a Consent Judgment and final order of abatement for the property.

The judgment concluded a civil nuisance abatement investigation initiated by Rowan County on behalf of North Carolina. Chapter 19 of the state's General Statutes outlines nuisance activities such as drug-related crimes, recurring violence, and breaches of peace, providing a civil remedy to mitigate these impacts on communities.

Sheriff Travis Allen expressed gratitude for cooperation from the property owner and community members. "I appreciate the cooperation from the property owner and community members as we continue working together in Rowan County to ensure our communities and citizens are safe. I hope this successful resolution assists with restoring peace to this community," said Sheriff Allen.

Under the terms of the Consent Judgment, the property must remain vacant and be listed for sale with a licensed real estate broker within 30 days. The agreement also stipulates that future nuisance activities are prohibited on the premises. Trespassers will face arrest and criminal charges.

Bryan House, Director for North Carolina Alcohol Law Enforcement, highlighted the significance of nuisance abatement laws: "The nuisance abatement law provides a means to address locations where repeated criminal activities reduce the quality of life for citizens of North Carolina,” he stated. “I am grateful for our strong partnership with Rowan County and the citizens of this community.”

Alcohol Law Enforcement (ALE) Special Agents have statewide jurisdiction in North Carolina, focusing on enhancing community safety by addressing criminal activity at both licensed and illegal alcohol establishments. ALE leads enforcement efforts related to alcoholic beverage control, gambling, lottery, tobacco laws, and nuisance abatement statutes. Their team includes certified paralegals trained extensively in conducting nuisance abatement investigations.