Cops raid moonshine still in NC mountains

MARSHALL, N.C. — Authorities have seized more than 400 gallons of mash and 36 gallons of illegal moonshine in a raid on a sophisticated still operation in the North Carolina mountains.

Officials said the raid in Madison County was the first in recent memory despite the area’s history of moonshining.

The Asheville Citizen-Times reported Thursday that officers seized eight 55 gallon barrels of corn mash used to make the illegal whiskey and 36 gallons of distilled product.

Authorities also found 20 marijuana plants and 60 guns. Three men have been charged.

Agents from state and federal agencies participated in the operation.

Madison County Sheriff John Ledford said the still was located Tuesday about 100 yards up a steep, wooded mountainside and the still’s burner was warm when they arrived.

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