Woman charged after inappropriate comic books handed out at Sunset Beach trunk-or-treat, police say

SUNSET BEACH, NC (WWAY) — A Carolina Shores woman has been charged after police say she distributed obscene comic-style materials to children during Sunset Beach’s trunk-or-treat event.

Sunset Beach Police said detectives presented evidence to a magistrate Friday morning, resulting in a felony charge of disseminating obscene material to minors against Kathleen Lincoln.

The arrest follows multiple reports that inappropriate comics were handed out during the town’s Halloween event Thursday night at Sunset Beach Town Park. Families alerted police, who say they were able to quickly identify Lincoln as a suspect.

“Trunk or Treat has been one of our favorite community traditions for many years. It’s supposed to be a safe, fun night for families and we are deeply disturbed by this incident,” the department said in a statement, adding that the safety of children remains the top priority.

Police first warned parents late Thursday to check their children’s bags and review any comic-style materials. The distribution, they said, came from a registered participant not affiliated with the town.

Anyone whose child received material that seemed inappropriate or out of place is asked to contact Sunset Beach Police. The department says no further information will be released as the investigation continues.