Business owner indicted for allegedly touching young workers

WHITE LAKE, NC (WWAY) — White Lake Police say a business owner has been charged after a complaint from a parent about him improperly touching a child working at his restaurant.

According to a news release, a Bladen County grand jury indicted Phillip William Goodwin, 45, of Winterville. Police said Goodwin is “a co-owner of a popular White Lake business,” but a spokesman would not say which one. He said the alleged incident happened at a restaurant in the 2000 block of White Lake Drive. An online search brings up several sites that show Goodwin associated with Pizza Connection, which is located at 2015 White Lake Drive.

Police say Goodwin surrendered to law enforcement last night and was charged with indecent liberties with a child and two counts of sexual battery. He was released after posting a $5,000 secure bond.

White Lake Police say they got a complaint from a parent in August about the alleged incidents occurring at the business involving young girls. Police conducted an investigation and presented their findings to a grand jury Monday. They say the indecent liberties allegation includes “improper touching” of the victims.

Goodwin is due in court Feb. 1.