ALE Special Agents

Alcohol Law Enforcement's 117 sworn agents have statewide jurisdiction in enforcing the alcohol, tobacco, controlled substance and gambling laws of the state. Agents enforce numerous alcohol laws that deal with the sale, purchase, transportation, manufacture, consumption, and possession of alcoholic beverages. Agents also have the authority to investigate and make arrests for any criminal offense.

The North Carolina Alcohol Beverage Control Commission issues nearly 44,000 permits for the legal sale of alcohol to establishments such as restaurants, nightclubs, pool rooms, race tracks, country clubs, convenience stores and grocery stores. ALE agents conduct background investigations on all ABC permit applications. If an establishment holds an ABC permit, the owners and operators are required to allow an ALE agent enter their premises at any time, day or night, to conduct checks.

ALE agents conduct inspections, either overtly and covertly, of all locations holding ABC permits and investigate any complaints received concerning the operation of these establishments. Agents also enforce the Controlled Substance Act and state tobacco laws; and conduct alcohol seller/server training to educate employees.

Agents must have detailed knowledge of the laws of arrest, search and seizure, handling of firearms, and use of deadly force. Some investigations may require lengthy surveillance, undercover operations, or other similar actions to collect the evidence necessary for court or administrative hearings.

In addition, ALE agents conduct educational programs for high school and college students to heighten their awareness of the consequences of underage alcohol use. Agents conduct these programs throughout the year, but emphasize them during prom, graduation and spring breaks.

Applicants for ALE agents must meet education and physical agility requirements.

« this page last modified 04/29/09 »