U.S. 74 interchange
closed for upgrades
LUMBERTON – The U.S. 74 intersection with Broadridge Road in Robeson County was closed Thursday to begin the construction of an interchange.
A $7.5 million contract awarded last fall to C.M. Lindsay & Sons Inc. of Lumberton is part of the N.C. Department of Transportation’s ongoing effort to improve the safety and mobility of the U.S. 74 corridor in southeastern North Carolina.
The detour will send motorists to the U.S. 74 intersection with North Creek Road to reach either North Broadridge or South Broadridge roads. Construction has begun on a new bridge that will span the highway for the interchange.
***
Sheriff’s deputies
seize machines
RAEFORD — Sheriff’s deputies in Hoke County executed search warrants on Monday at two Raeford businesses and seized 241 illegal gaming machines.
The machines were seized from Club Pond Skills Internet Cafe (178 machines) and Triple S Bingo, (63 machines). Also confiscated was a large amount of money and an unknown amount of marijuana and crack cocaine.
The warrants were the result of complaints from businesses and residents in the area.
No arrests were made, but the investigation is continuing.
***
Towns wants OK
for ‘gator hunting
LAKE WACCAMAW — A state first could soon be bestowed upon Lake Waccamaw as potentially the first to request an alligator hunting season.
The Wildlife Resources Commission has approved a tentative plan to allow permit hunts for alligators in a handful of counties. Final regulations have not been approved, but lawmakers designated hunting could only be allowed in municipalities that request a gators season and have a sustainable population.
Lake Waccamaw town officials are hoping to hear soon on their application.
***
Man arrested on
felony sex charge
CLINTON — A Sampson County man is facing a felony sexual offense stemming from an investigation launched three years ago, according to Sampson County Sheriff’s authorities.
Ramiro Cruz Ortiz, 38, of Clinton, was charged with indecent liberties with a child. Ortiz was taken into custody on Monday at a residence on Elwell Road, Clinton. His bond was set at $25,000.
Sheriff’s authorities have been actively investigating the case since it was reported in 2015.
From staff and wire reports.