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Bladen Sheriff’s Deputies take part in NCSHP Driving School

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Bladen County Sheriff’s deputies took part in the North Carolina State Highway Patrol Driving School on Saturday. The driving school was held at the Highway Patrol’s Academy in Raleigh.

 

According to Gary Turlington of the Bladen County Sheriff’s Office, Sheriff Jim McVicker replaced the majority of the Sherrif’s Office’s aged fleet of Ford Crown Victorias with the Dodge Charger.

 

Turlington said prior to issuance of these new cars, Sheriff McVicker mandated driver training for the effected uniformed members. It began at the Elizabethtown Airport in July this year and concludes this weekend in Raleigh.

 

According to Turlington, the topics covered included law and policies governing police vehicle operations, precision driving skills, precision backing skills, precision close quarters skills, off-road recovery, curve negotiation skills, and high speed operations.

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Two charged with larceny by employee

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Reaves

Reaves

On Monday, Nov. 7, Elizabethtown Police Lieutenant Lonnie Cheshire received a report of an employee theft which had occurred at Food Lion on Tuesday, October 25.

Upon investigation Lieutenant Cheshire discovered that Food Lion loss prevention records indicated that money was missing from employee India Reaves’ register. Further investigation also revealed that a former employee, Tricia Patterson, was involved in the theft as well. It was determined that money and merchandise were stolen from the business.

Lieutenant Cheshire was able to establish probable cause to charge India Reaves with Larceny by Employee and Conspiracy to Commit Felony Larceny. Tricia Patterson was charged with Conspiracy to Commit Felony Larceny. Both suspects were processed and held in Bladen County Jail under a secure bond.

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Assault charges dismissed against N.C. House candidates Benton, Jones

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scales of justiceA political battle for a seat in the North Carolina House that turned into a legal battle with each candidate filing assault charges against the other ended Monday in a matter of seconds.

Simple assault charges against Tim Benton of Bladenboro and Brenden Jones of Tabor City were dismissed in Bladen County District Court. Neither man was present. Lawyers told Judge Fred Gore that the men agreed to have the charges dismissed.

Each had taken out papers charging the other with simple assault following an altercation Oct. 29 at Beast Fest in Bladenboro. No charges were filed by law enforcement since the altercation was not seen by any officers, Bladenboro Police Chief Chris Hunt said.

Although reports differ as to what took place between the candidates, it’s known both were attending the annual festival, which draws several thousand people to the town. The men spoke with each other and decided to move away from the crowd to continue their conversion. At some point, the two had some type of altercation. Law enforcement intervened and the two men parted ways.

Jones, a Republican, won the election for House seat 46 with 19,446 votes, according to the N.C. Board of Elections. Benton, a Democrat, had 11,705 votes and Libertarian Tom Howell Jr. had 1,040. The district covers portions of Bladen, Columbus and Robeson counties.

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Additional charges filed against South Carolina man as a result of fatal accident

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Kenneth Haselden

Kenneth Haselden

A South Carolina man charged in an accident in August that killed two people in Bladen County was indicted Monday in Bladen County Superior Court on four additional charges.

Kenneth Gary Haselden, 64, of Huger, South Carolina, was charged with two counts each of serious injury by vehicle and death by vehicle, all felonies. He was released after posting a $250,000 unsecured bond ordered by Judge D. Jack Hooks.

Haselden had been charged with driving while impaired and failure to reduce speed following the accident that occurred Aug. 27 on U.S. 701 near Cape Fear ATV and MX Park.

Killed in the accident was Liz Esbeidy Manujano, 30, of Bladenboro. Her six-year-old daughter, Alyssa, later died from injuries suffered as a result of the accident. Manujano’s 11-year-old daughter, Jinely, was injured and airlifted to Duke Hospitals in Durham. Her one-year-old son, Josue, was riding in his car seat and not injured. The other two children were not properly restrained at the time of the accident and Alyssa was ejected from the vehicle, according to investigators.

According to the N.C. Highway Patrol, Haselden was driving his 2007 Dodge pickup southbound on U.S. 701. Melissa Coffin Melvin of Elizabethtown was slowing for traffic when her 2006 Chevrolet SUV was struck in the rear by Haselden’s vehicle.

Haselden’s vehicle then veered left of the center line and struck head-on the 2012 Honda Passport driving by Manujano, investigators said. Melvin’s vehicle also crossed the center line after being struck and collided with a 2006 Dodge van driven by Francie Murphy Hunter of Garland.

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Bladen County has worst year for lawsuits

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Joseph Sledge photo credit to www.newsobserver.com?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss

Joseph Sledge
photo credit to www.newsobserver.com?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss

The city officials of Hickory, North Carolina approved paying out $3.25 million back in August, 2016, in a lawsuit settlement for a wrongful conviction. Bladen County is facing a similar lawsuit along with 12 other lawsuits, two appeals and one Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) case, according to county attorney Leslie Johnson.

For the past 38 years, Johnson and his law firm, Johnson Law Firm, has represented Bladen County, but reportedly never facing so many lawsuits and cases before. This year the 16 cases the Mother County is facing, makes 2016 the worst year the county has seen, according to Johnson.

Johnson said he has never lost an EEOC case before and feels confident about all the cases he and his firm are working on for the county. The biggest case, he revealed, is the Joseph Sledge vs. Bladen County.

In the case of concern, Joseph Sledge served almost 40 years behind bars before he was found innocent of a double murder with a DNA test. This case is similar to the case Hickory, NC settled in August with the city paying over $3 million to the plaintiff imprisoned for around 24 years even though he was innocent.

Another issue with the Sledge case is none of the insurance companies the county has paid to be insured for lawsuits over the past 38 years are willing to provide the coverage needed for the monumental case, according to the county’s law firm.

Bladen County is paying more than the usual for attorney fees due to all the disputes and claims against the county, but has not exceeded the budgeted expenses. Johnson said he is working hard and fighting the insurance companies in the Sledge case to save the county money. He has contacted each of the insurance companies the county has paid in the past 38 years and will be taking legal action against them if necessary.

Bottom line, times have changed. More people are making their complaints a legal process, which in turn, is costing our communities more money.

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Teen Court to meet Monday, Nov. 21

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scales of justiceTeen Court is scheduled for Monday, November 21, 2016 at 6 p.m. Everyone is asked to meet in the District Courtroom fo the Bladen County Courthouse.

For more information contact : Johnice Autry, Program Coordinator at 910-862-4591.

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Governor McCrory Announces Reward Concerning Western NC Wildfires

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gov-mccrory-update-western-nc-firesBat Cave, N.C. – Governor Pat McCrory announced today that the state is offering a reward of up to $10,000 to be issued to anyone who provides information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons who are responsible for setting wildfires in western North Carolina. More than 46,000 acres have been burned by wildfires throughout the region, many of which are believed to have been man-made.

“We are committed to doing all we can to support our firefighters, protect people and property, and find those who may be responsible for any wildfires in North Carolina,” said Governor McCrory. “Firefighters are making progress but the job is not over. I especially want to thank the volunteers serving as firefighters and those helping to feed, house and support firefighters in communities throughout our state.”

Anyone having information concerning these wildfires should contact Macon County Crimestoppers at 828-349-2600 or Jackson County Crimestoppers at 828-631-1125.

Speaking from the Bat Cave Volunteer Fire Department in Henderson County, Governor McCrory stressed that while wildfires may have been started by people, dry conditions are causing fires to spread so people throughout western North Carolina need to continue taking steps to prevent wildfires. He also expressed concern about air quality throughout western and central North Carolina.

Areas across the mountains could see sustained winds of 20-35 MPH with gusts of 30-50 MPH Saturday morning through Sunday evening. Gusty winds and lack of moisture will increase the threat of wildfires spreading across western North Carolina, as dry weather looks to continue across the state through the middle of next week. Drought conditions continue to spread eastward, and almost half of the state is classified under drought conditions or considered abnormally dry.

The governor announced that the State Emergency Operations Center has been activated with the primary mission of providing and managing resources for the NC Forest Service. In addition, the western NC Emergency Management Regional Coordinating Center in Conover has also been activated. Emergency management and fire personnel are working to address Governor McCrory’s top priorities of safety, protecting structures, containment and controlling costs.

More than 2,100 active personnel are now involved fighting fires which have burned more than 46,700 acres and threatened 1,800 structures. The Party Rock Fire in Rutherford County remains the No. 2 priority fire in the nation, forcing evacuations in Rutherford and Henderson Counties. One shelter is open in Henderson County.

A stretch of Highway 74-A leading into Chimney Rock Village from the north and south remains closed. Highway 9 was closed yesterday from the intersection at Highway 74-A in Bat Cave north to Shumont Road.

In support of the U.S. Forest Service, N.C. Emergency Management’s Helo-Aquatic Rescue Team has deployed a N.C. National Guard Blackhawk helicopter to be on standby, along with local rescue technicians to perform any rescues necessary from wildfire fighting operations.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has approved Governor McCrory’s request for financial assistance through Fire Management Assistance Grants which allow FEMA to pay for 75 percent of the emergency protective measures taken in fighting the fires including expenses for field camps; equipment use, repair and replacement; tools, materials and supplies; and mobilization and demobilization activities.

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Ballots Cast By Dead, Double and Felon Voters Challenged In 50 NC Counties

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Additional Ballot Protests Expected As Voter Fraud Concerns Grow

Raleigh, N.C. – Protests are being filed in 50 counties to challenge known instances of votes being cast by dead people, felons or individuals who voted more than once. Additional ballot protests are expected as additional cases are discovered.

“Now we know why Roy Cooper fought so hard against voter ID and other efforts to combat voter fraud as attorney general,” said Russell Peck, Pat McCrory’s campaign manager. “With each passing day, we discover more and more cases of voting fraud and irregularities. We intend to make sure that every vote is properly counted and serious voter fraud concerns are addressed before the results of the election can be determined.” 

These protests follow the discovery of North Carolina Democrat Party-funded political action committees which appear to have paid individuals to fill out and witness hundreds of fraudulent absentee ballots for Democrats including Roy Cooper in Bladen County and potentially 11 others. The protests urge each county board of elections conduct a full scale investigation into these absentee ballots and review all witness signatures on these absentee ballot envelopes to look for evidence of obvious ballot harvesting, which could impact thousands of votes. These protests also request that the county election boards conduct this review before certifying the final number of lawful votes during their respective canvasses.

Protests are being filed by registered voters with each county elections boards to void anywhere between 100 to 200 ballots cast by suspected felons, dead people and double voters in the following counties:

1. Alamance
2. Alexander
3. Beaufort
4. Bertie
5. Bladen
6. Brunswick
7. Buncombe
8. Burke
9. Cabarrus
10. Camden
11. Carteret
12. Cherokee
13. Cleveland
14. Craven
15. Cumberland
16. Davidson
17. Durham
18. Edgecombe
19. Forsyth
20. Gaston
21. Gates
22. Granville
23. Greene
24. Guilford
25. Halifax
26. Harnett
27. Haywood
28. Hoke
29. Iredell
30. Jackson
31. Johnston
32. Lee
33. Madison
34. Martin
35. Meckenburg
36. Moore
37. Nash
38. New Hanover
39. Orange
40. Person
41. Pitt
42. Richmond
43. Robeson
44. Rockingham
45. Stanly
46. Stokes
47. Vance
48. Wake
49. Warren
50. Wayne

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State Highway Patrol Graduates 47 New Troopers

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RALEIGH – The State Highway Patrol proudly welcomed 47 new troopers at a graduation ceremony for the 140th basic highway patrol school.  The celebration ended 15 weeks of extensive academic and physical training. 

The ceremony was held at the Colonial Baptist Church in Cary at 10 a.m.  The oath of office was administered by Judge Harold T. Jarrell Jr., North Carolina District Courts.  Frank L. Perry, Secretary of the North Carolina Department of Public Safety and Colonel Bill Grey, commander of the State Highway Patrol provided remarks.

The cadets will report to their respective duty stations on Wednesday, December 7th to begin a rigorous field training program.

highway-patrol-grads

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Reward Offered For Fugitive From Justice

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michaaveeis-dommvick-brownSheriff James A. McVicker said today his deputies along with the United States Marshall’s Office are actively searching for Michaaveeis Donnvick Brown, age 25, five foot seven inches tall and weighing approximately 210 pounds.

Brown is wanted for a serious assault that happened in August. Brown was involved in a verbal argument with the victim and then pulled a handgun and shot the victim inflicting serious injury requiring hospitalization. Brown was charged with Assault With A Deadly Weapon With Intent To Kill Inflicting Serious Injury and Possession of a Firearm By A Convicted Felon.

Brown is described as heavy set, with medium complexion and dread locks. He has tattoos on his face of two tear drops and the letters LA. Brown should be considered armed and dangerous. Brown has a home address of 31 Peach Street, Clarkton. He is known to frequent Oakdale Homes in Clarkton.

The US Marshall’s Office is offering a $500.00 reward for any information regarding the whereabouts and subsequent arrest of Brown.

Anyone with information on Brown is asked to call the Bladen County Sheriff’s Office and ask for Detective Chris Brisson.

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Arrest of Breaking and Entering Suspect Clears Several Cases in Bladen County

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nathaniel-gray-shirley-arrested-in-bladen-county

Sheriff James A. McVicker said today that the arrest of Nathaniel Gray Shirley, 24, of 6279 NC Hwy 210 West, Garland, resulted in the closure of several breaking and entering cases in the county.

McVicker said Shirley broke into two houses and a vehicle in the area of US 701 South near Clarkton and on Highway 41 west of Dublin during the month of October.

In all, Shirley was charged with three counts of Larceny of a Firearm, one count of Breaking and Entering a Motor Vehicle, three counts of Larceny after Breaking and Entering, one count of First Degree Burglary, two counts of Possession of Stolen Goods, three counts of Possession of Stolen Firearms, two counts of Obtaining Property By False Pretense, and once count of Injury to Personal Property.

Shirley is currently in Bladen County Jail under a $256,000.00 secured bond awaiting trial. McVicker said some of the stolen property was recovered from area pawn shops. “This young man caused a lot of problems for those he stole from,” said McVicker. “I am glad my investigators were able to solve these cases and get this young man behind bars.”

McVicker said homeowners should be especially vigilant this time of year as thieves know many homes will soon hold Christmas presents. He also said phone scams tend to increase this time of year.

“Right now we are getting a lot of reports of phone calls originating in Jamaica where the caller tells you that you have one the Publisher’s Clearing House Sweepstakes,” he said.

“Please do not fall for this scam or those like it. Legitimate businesses will never call you and then ask you to send them money or put money on a credit card in order to get a prize you have supposedly won. The best thing to do when you get this type of call is just hang up.”

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Single-car crash in Bladenboro claims second life

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airlifting-patient-from-bladenboroA tragic single-car crash that ocurred on Saturday afternoon near Bladenboro  has turned into a double fatality, according to the North Carolina Highway Patrol. The crash ocurred at 3:30 p.m. on NC 131 near the intersection of Old Abbottsburg Road.

NC Highway Patrol Trooper K. McVicker said Richard Taylor of Bladenboro was traveling northbound on NC 131 towards Bladenboro when when he drifted left of the centerline and ran off the roadway to the left and struck a drainage culvert.  Taylor was airlifted to New Hanover Regional Medical Center on Saturday. Trooper McVicker said he died of his injuries early Monday.  His wife, Margaret Taylor, was pronounced dead on the scene on Saturday.

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Governor McCrory Requests SBI to Examine Potential Voter Fraud

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Gov. McCroryRaleigh, N.C. – Governor Pat McCrory has requested that the State Bureau of Investigation look into voting irregularities in Bladen County. This request follows the unanimous vote by the State Board of Elections to refer the matter to the U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District.

“We have an obligation to ensure that every vote is counted accurately and that our elections process is conducted legally,” said Governor McCrory. “Any verified instance of voter fraud or other illegal activity should be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”

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Columbus County woman sentenced for high speed chase that ended in Bladen

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DewA Columbus County woman will spend up to 32 months in prison after pleading guilty Wednesday to charges stemming from a two-county high-speed car chase in August that ended along N.C. 87 in Bladen County. Speeds reached more than 100 mph during the chase.

Ivey Dew, 27, of Evergreen, plead guilty to assault with a deadly weapon on a government official, fleeing to elude arrest and driving while impaired in Bladen County Superior Court under an agreement with the state. She was sentenced to between 19 and 32 months in custody.

“I think it is critically important for the public to understand that this type of outrageous conduct simply will not be tolerated here in Bladen County,” Assistant District Attorney Quintin McGee said. “If you flee from law enforcement in a vehicle and use that vehicle as a weapon, endangering the lives of the officers and the motoring public at large, you are going to prison.”

According to authorities, the chase began in Whiteville on Aug. 2 when Columbus County Sheriff’s deputies began pursuing a vehicle that had been reported stolen.

The vehicle, driven by Dew, refused to stop for law enforcement and led authorities on a chase that reached speeds in excess of 100 miles per hour into Bladen County along N.C. 87 where Highway Patrol troopers conducted a “rolling roadblock” that boxed in Dew’s vehicle, according to a summary. Dew’s vehicle then struck the rear and side of one of the patrol cars.

Dew was apprehended and admitted to being under the influence of illegal narcotics, officials said.

The Highway Patrol said Dew’s vehicle traveled from Columbus County to U.S. 701 Business to Mercer Mill Road and turned onto NC 87 East before being stopped near Allen Priest Road.

No officers were injured during the chase.

Dew also was ordered to reimburse the Highway Patrol $2,346 for damages to the patrol vehicle.

Additional charges in Columbus County related to the stolen vehicle and chase are still pending.

A man was a passenger in the vehicle during the chase, but he was not charged, according to the Highway Patrol.

Bladen County Sheriff’s Office deputies assisted in the chase.

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SHERIFF OFFERS TIPS FOR SAFE SHOPPING DURING THE HOLIDAY SEASON

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Bladen County Sheriff's Department “The holiday season is upon us and shoppers are crowding malls and discount stores to buy the latest gadgets and find the best deals,” said Bladen County Sheriff James A. McVicker.

 

But what shoppers are neglecting is their safety.  According to Sheriff McVicker “This time of year attracts more shopping-related criminal activity because of the larger crowds and the extended store hours.  These factors and the usual distraction of shopping, creates a more favorable environment for petty thieves and other offenders.

 

The Sheriff reminds all Bladen County residents to follow these safety tips:

 

Shopping Safety:

 

  • A single shopper is the best target for theft. Always shop with a friend or relative.
  • When going shopping, tell someone where you are going and what time to expect you to return. Also, make sure they know what you are wearing, as well as the type of vehicle you are driving.
  • Shop during daylight hours. If you shop at night, park your vehicle in a well-lit area.
  • Dress casually and comfortably and avoid wearing expensive jewelry. If carrying cash, keep it in your front pocket rather than in a purse or wallet.  This makes it much more difficult for a pick-pocket to remove.  Also store car keys in a pants or jacket pocket.  If your purse is stolen, you will still be able to drive home.
  • Pay careful attention to your surroundings and avoid overloading yourself with packages. It is important to have clear visibility and freedom of motion to avoid mishaps.
  • When returning to your vehicle, check around it and in the back seat. Be aware of strangers approaching you for any reason.  Have your car keys in your hand to avoid spending unnecessary time unprotected from the security of your vehicle.
  • If you feel uneasy returning to your vehicle alone, find a security guard and ask them to walk you to your car.

 

According to Sheriff McVicker, “During this time of year, busy holiday shoppers become careless and vulnerable to other crimes as well.  Credit card fraud and gift card fraud are on the rise.  However, taking a few preventive measures can help.”

 

Credit Card Fraud:

 

  • Keep a close watch on your credit card every time you use it, and make sure you get it back as quickly as possible.
  • Never write your PIN number on your credit card.
  • Never leave your credit cards or receipts lying around.
  • Shield your credit card number so that others around you can’t copy it or capture it on a mobile telephone or other camera.
  • Only carry credit cards that you absolutely need.
  • Shred anything with your credit card number written on it.
  • If you’re planning to purchase online, make sure the web page where you enter your credit card information is secure through SSL (Secure Socket Layer). You can tell if the web page is secure by looking for the gold lock or key icon at the bottom corner of your browser window.
  • If you’re not comfortable submitting your information through the internet, call the seller and give them your information over the telephone. Never send your credit card information via email.
  • Check the company out. Only do business with companies that provide a physical address and telephone number. 
  • Keep good records. Always print out a copy of any online products or services you purchase.

 

Gift Card Fraud:

 

  • Never buy gift cards from online auction sites. This is a large source of gift card fraud.  Many of the gift cards are stolen, counterfeit or used.
  • Only buy gift cards directly from the store issuing the gift card or from a secure retailer’s website.
  • Don’t buy gift cards off of publicly displayed racks in retail stores. Only purchase gift cards at the sales terminal from the cashier.
  • Always carefully examine both the front and back of a gift card before you buy it. If you see a PIN number, ask for a different card.  If the card looks like it has been tampered with in any way, put it back.
  • Always ask the store cashier to scan the gift card in front of you. This will guarantee that your card is valid when you buy it and that it reflects the balance you just charged it with.
  • Always keep your receipt as a proof of purchase as long as there is money stored on the gift card.
  • If possible, register your gift card at the store’s website.
  • Never give your Social Security number, date of birth or any other unneeded private information when purchasing a gift card. No reputable company will ask for this information.

 

 

In light of these problems, Sheriff McVicker warns shoppers to be careful so that they don’t become the victim of criminal activity.  “Unfortunately, when shopping, people have a tendency to let their guard down,” said Sheriff McVicker.  “However, paying attention and taking precautions can help eliminate their chances of being victimized.”

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Bladen County man arrested for sex crimes against a child

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pavon-1A Bladen County man has been arrested and charged with sex crimes against a child.

According to reports, the Bladen County Sheriff’s Office arrested Elias Pavon on Sunday, December 11, and charged with indecent liberties with a child and first degree forced offense.

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Highway Patrol Involved Shooting in Lumberton

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NC-Highway-PatrolRaleigh – On Monday, October 10th at approximately 8:08 p.m., two members of the Robeson County Sheriff’s office accompanied by a sergeant with the State Highway Patrol were conducting search and rescue operations in Lumberton.  Preliminary information shows while traveling on a flooded portion of west Fifth Street, the officers encountered a male individual.  The male became hostile towards the officers and displayed a handgun.  After observing the handgun, the sergeant shot the man who succumbed to his injuries.  The identity of the subject is unknown at this time. 

“I am proud that our first responders were in the community rendering aid to our citizens,” said Colonel Bill Grey, commander of the North Carolina State Highway Patrol. “While we are saddened by any loss of life, I am thankful that our member and the Robeson County Sheriffs’ deputies were not injured.”

At the request of the Highway Patrol, the State Bureau of Investigation is conducting the shooting investigation.  The sergeant has been placed on administrative leave pending an internal investigation as is standard operating procedure in any Patrol involved shooting

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Highway Patrol Releases Name of Deceased Involved in Lumberton Shooting

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Raleigh – The State Highway Patrol has released the name of the deceased involved in the Monday evening shooting in Lumberton, N.C.

According to the preliminary information, on Monday, October 10th at approximately 8:08 p.m., two members of the Robeson County Sheriff’s Office accompanied by a sergeant with the State Highway Patrol were conducting search and rescue operations in Lumberton.  The information shows while traveling on a flooded portion of west Fifth Street, the officers encountered a male individual.  The male became hostile towards the officers and displayed a handgun.  After observing the handgun, the sergeant shot the man who succumbed to his injuries.

The deceased has been identified as Dennis Hunt, 56, of Lumberton, N.C.

The sergeant has been identified as J. F. Hinson. Hinson is a 13-year veteran assigned to the Troop B District 7 Lumberton State Highway Patrol office located in Robeson County. He has been placed on administrative leave pending an internal investigation which is standard operating procedure in any Patrol involved shooting.

At the request of the Highway Patrol, the State Bureau of Investigation is conducting the shooting investigation.

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Sheriff McVicker Cautions Residents Against Scams

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Bladen County Sheriff's DepartmentSheriff James A. McVicker announced today that FEMA IA Housing Inspectors are in the field in Bladen County to assess damaged homes as part of the IA (Individual Assistance) registration process for applicants.

These inspectors are fully credentialed and are working to expedite the IA process for disaster survivors.

FEMA has a two part program that includes help for individuals and housing and for Other Needs Assistance.

In the Housing Assistance program they help provide:

  • Temporary housing
  • Lodging expenses reimbursement
  • Repairs and replacement
  • Permanent or semi-permanent housing construction

Under the Other needs Assistance Program they provide:

  • Medical and dental expenses
  • Funeral expenses
  • Personal property
  • Transportation
  • Other expenses or serious needs

To find out more about the program go to the FEMA website and the Individual Disaster Assistance section.

“We need for our citizens to be aware that after any natural disaster there are, sadly, individuals who will take advantage of the situation and try to cheat homeowners,” said McVicker. “Make sure you go to the FEMA website to get accurate information and check with your local government Emergency Management to find out where and when FEMA will be set up and take applications in person.”

McVicker said homeowners should be vigilant and ask for identification and credentials from anyone who shows up at your home unsolicited seeking to help you. You should be very cautious about giving out your financial information such as bank account numbers, routing numbers, credit card and debit card numbers or PIN numbers.

“Unfortunately there are some contractors who want to prey on those in need. These few bad folks cause the legitimate contractors and government officials a lot of problems. If you think someone is not who they say they are then call 911 and get a vehicle description and if possible a license tag number,” said McVicker.

The FEMA IA website has already registered 17,600 applicants and have dispersed $3 million dollars as of 7:00 pm Thursday, October 13th.

“I know it has been a long week for everyone and we still have a ways to go,” McVicker said. “My officers and staff have worked tirelessly to assist the citizens of this community and we will continue to do so. Please call us if you need us. We are here to help in any way we can and that does not mean just routine law enforcement duties.”

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Traffic stop nets drug arrest in Elizabethtown

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webb-and-brown-1

On Saturday, Oct. 15, around 11:54 p.m. the Elizabethtown Police Department’s Sergeant / Investigator Willie Thompson along with Sergeant Roger Davis and Patrolman Daniel Ivey were working traffic in the area of East Broad Street near Dewitt Street.

Contact was made with Tiffany Shaquonia Brown who was operating a 2010 Honda Accord. Also present in the vehicle was passenger Henry Lamont Webb. Upon further investigation officers discovered suspected cocaine, a concealed handgun, and drug paraphernalia in the vehicle.

Tiffany Brown was charged with possession of cocaine and carrying a concealed weapon and is currently being held in Bladen County Jail under a $3,000 bond.

Henry Webb was also charged with carrying a concealed weapon, possession of a firearm by a felon, and possession of drug paraphernalia and is currently being held in Bladen County Jail under a $10,000 bond.

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