For Release: Immediate  Date: April 5, 2001

Contact: Sara Kempin Phone: (919) 733-5027 (ext.233)

This decision is the latest step in a civil nuisance abatement case brought by Randolph County District Attorney, Garland Yates, on behalf of the State of North Carolina.

"Today's judgement shows how a community can work together to solve problems," said Yates. "I would like to thank the Randolph County Sheriff's Office, the N.C. Alcohol Law Enforcement Division, and the citizens of this neighborhood for their help. I also appreciate the cooperation and reasonableness of Mr. Siler in drawing this matter to an early, successful conclusion."

The consent judgement prohibits Henry Siler from ever operating a nuisance anywhere in North Carolina. In addition, the property at 2549 Old NC 421 Rd. can never be operated as a nuisance, regardless of who owns it.

Under the conditions of the judgement, no lease between Siler and current tenants can be renewed and all people living on the property must leave within 30 days. Siler must enter into an agreement with the Sheriff's Office that gives them authority to arrest any trespassers on the property. If Siler violates the terms of the consent judgement he may be held in contempt of court, and may be subject to a fine or a jail sentence. In addition if drug sales resume on the property, the property may be subject to forfeiture.

Information for the lawsuit was coordinated by a member of the Alcohol Law Enforcement (A.L.E.) Nuisance Abatement Team at the request of Randolph County Sheriff Lichard Hurley. Deputies with the Sheriff's Office researched police records concerning this establishment and provided the information to the Nuisance Abatement Team.

"Our goal is to keep the citizens of Randolph County safe," said Hurley. "This action helps us achieve that goal and the court's order provides a permanent solution in this case."

The property has a reputation as a location for drug deals, prostitution, assaults and other breaches of the peace.

"The nuisance law helps communities solve violent problems permanently," said John D. Smith, III, A.L.E. director. "We are pleased that we can assist Randolph County, and help them work toward a permanent solution."

Since its inception in 1994, A.L.E.'s Nuisance Abatement Team has assisted local law enforcement agencies in stopping problems at more than 100 establishments across the state. The Team is currently investigating about 30-40 locations across North Carolina.

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