Sidney, NC – On May 15, 2019, Columbus County Sheriff’s Office Vice-Narcotics Unit executed a search warrant at an establishment located in the 12,000 block of Highway 701 South in the Sidney community. The video gaming establishment was open for business when the search warrant was executed. Columbus County Sheriff’s Office initiated the investigation after receiving numerous citizen complaints concerning the establishment.
During the investigation, undercover agents entered the gaming establishment and played the available video gaming machines. Afterwards, they were given cash payouts for their winnings. This violates North Carolina General Statutes.
During the search warrant, Columbus County Sheriff’s Office seized cash, several video gaming machines, and an amount of marijuana located in the office of the establishment.
Columbus County Sheriff’s Office visited this establishment prior to the search warrant, warning Brown that if he was operating illegal video gaming machines, Sheriff Greene would initiate an investigation. Brown did not take heed to the warnings.
William Murray Brown, 60, was arrested and charged with operating video gaming machines and possession of marijuana. He was given a $500.00 secured bond.
