SBI investigating disposal of playground equipment at Hampstead park

HAMPSTEAD, NC (WWAY) — The State Bureau of Investigation is looking into the transfer and disposal of county-owned playground equipment from a park in Hampstead.

The investigation involves equipment removed from Kiwanis Park after it was deemed unsafe.

Last month, community leader Beth Butler said she and several volunteers helped dismantle and dispose of the playground. Butler said the county approved her request to take the equipment.

However, other county leaders have raised concerns, saying they were not aware the transfer took place and questioning whether the disposal was handled appropriately.

North Carolina law outlines specific procedures counties must follow when selling, leasing or transferring public property. Those procedures include options such as sealed bids, public auction or negotiated offers to ensure fair value.

The SBI has confirmed it is investigating the matter.