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158 people arrested in statewide ALE sweep prompted by nightclub shootings

North Carolina's Alcohol Law Enforcement agency arrested more than 150 people overnight during a statewide sweep to deter violence at nightclubs, bars and restaurants across the state.

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Nightclub shootings prompt statewide ALE operation
RALEIGH, N.C. — North Carolina’s Alcohol Law Enforcement agency arrested more than 150 people overnight during a statewide sweep to deter violence at nightclubs, bars and restaurants across the state.

Several fatal shootings have occurred at different locations during October and November that prompted the operation.

The ABC permits at Red Bowl Asian Bistro and Diamondz Gentelmans Club have been surrendered as a result.

Authorities arrested 158 people and charged them with 297 charges, including 101 related to alcohol, 97 drug charges and 28 felonies during the Friday night sweep, according to the State Bureau of Investigation.

ALE agents will submit reports to the ABC Commission documenting regulatory and law violations at the 21 ABC-permitted businesses. The violations could result in fines, suspensions or revocations of ABC permits, the SBI said.

“Every available ALE special agent in the state will be participating in this special statewide operation with one goal in mind: To keep our citizens safe.” said Terrance Merriweather, head of ALE.

“One of the highest priorities of ALE is to prevent and address violence and other criminal activity at places where alcohol is sold. Our agents, working in partnership with sheriffs and police chiefs, will be out all night enforcing laws in and around these locations.”

ALE’s 109 agents have the authority to arrest and take investigatory action for any criminal offense.

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