Confiscated contraband destroyed by NHC Sheriff’s Department

The New Hanover County’s Sheriff’s Department spent the morning sifting through piles of contraband confiscated at the courthouse.

More than three thousand items ranging from forks to large knives, to handguns have been seized from courthouse visitors.

Sheriff Ed McMahon said seizing items that could potentially be used as a weapon is just one way of securing the courthouse. “You know you can’t be too careful. The courthouse can be a very volatile place,” said Sheriff McMahon. “We’re going to take every precaution we can, and make it as safe an environment as possible.”

The sheriff’s department destroyed all the items collected. They continue to warn courthouse visitors to leave all “questionable” belongings at home or in their car.