Wayne County cooperating with FBI as they investigate sheriff's office

A Wayne County spokesman confirmed to WRAL News on Wednesday afternoon that the county is cooperating with an investigation into the sheriff’s office being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. 

In a statement, Sheriff Larry Pierce said his office is aware of the FBI investigation that involves old cases handled by a former employee and that his office could not comment further.

Public Information Officer Joel Gillie said no county employees have been charged or placed on leave.

Because this is an ongoing investigation, Gillie couldn't comment further, but law enforcement sources in Wayne County told WRAL News that this is a wide-ranging investigation that’s focused on the sheriff, current deputies and private businesses tied to former deputies involving corruption.

The FBI did not immediately respond to a WRAL News request asking what investigators are looking for.