Nuisance Action Filed Against Goldsboro Business

The filing of the action was the the first step in a civil nuisance abatement case brought by Wayne County District Attorney Branny Vickory on behalf of the State of North Carolina.

The suit argues that the property has been the genesis of violent criminal behavior, including two murders in the past year.

"This action is being taken to protect the community from the dangerous activities that have repeatedly occurred at C&L Lounge," Vickory said. "The community has come forward to assist with law enforcement efforts to eliminate the criminal activity, and we thank them for their involvement."

Information for the lawsuit was coordinated by Agent C. Simpson of the Alcohol Law Enforcement's (ALE) Nuisance Abatement Team, at the request of Vickory.

Officers with the Goldsboro Police Department and Agent Simpson researched police records and conducted interviews concerning the property and submitted the results of their investigation to Vickory.

"This place has been the source of repeated violent activity, including two murders in the past year," Goldsboro Police Chief Tim Bell said. "The activity exposes our citizens and police officers who have to respond to calls there to dangers that cannot continue. Hopefully, this lawsuit will put an end to the problems and bring peace to that neighborhood."

Bryan Beatty, the secretary of the Department of Crime Control and Public Safety, Bryan Beatty, commended the district attorney and the Goldsboro Police for taking the action. He also said ALE works well assisting local communities with crime problems such as this one.

"ALE's Nuisance Abatement Team does good work in investigating complaints on properties that may be havens for criminal activity," Beatty said. "There is nothing more important than maintaining safe communities, and we are pleased to be able provide this help for our citizens."

Since its inception in 1994, ALE's Nuisance Abatement Team has assisted local communities in addressing nuisances at more than 526 properties across the state. The team is currently investigating 25-30 locations across North Carolina.