Benson man accused of moonshine operation

CLINTON, NC (AP) — A Benson man has been arrested and accused of running a moonshine operation in Sampson County.

The Fayetteville Observer reported 38-year-old Samuel Scott Byrd was arrested at the still behind an empty mobile home Tuesday.

Sampson sheriff’s deputies say they seized 24 gallons of moonshine.

Deputies destroyed a 500-gallon cooker and five 650-gallon vats. Officers also seized sugar and corn meal.

State Alcohol Law Enforcement agents accuse Byrd of a number of violations, including selling untaxed alcohol, possession of untaxed alcohol and possession of equipment to make untaxed alcohol.

Sheriff Jimmy Thornton says officers received a tip from a citizen.

It was unknown if Byrd has a lawyer.

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