A high-visibility checkpoint conducted by the Pinebluff Police Department on March 16 resulted in two arrests and 41 charges. The operation, part of the North Carolina Highway Safety Program, took place at U.S. Highway 1 South and West Monroe Avenue, with officers from multiple agencies working together to enhance roadway safety.
Eleven officers from the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office, North Carolina State Highway Patrol, Foxfire Police, and Pinebluff Police participated in the checkpoint. Representatives from Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), two Moore County magistrates, and the “Bat Mobile,” a mobile breath-alcohol testing unit, were also on-site.
During the four-hour operation, officers issued citations and made arrests for various violations, including driving with a revoked license, expired registration, lack of liability insurance, child seat belt infractions, and concealed weapon violations. Two firearms were seized after being found illegally concealed.
Two individuals were taken into custody and transported to the Moore County Jail. One was wanted in Iredell County for larceny of a motor vehicle, while the other had outstanding traffic violation warrants in Scotland County. Both were booked without incident and held on secured bonds.
Additionally, officers discovered a 15-year-old male concealing a modified handgun during a vehicle search prompted by the presence of illegal narcotics, including marijuana and edible gummies. A juvenile petition will be filed in connection with the incident.
Despite the number of charges issued, no vehicles were towed during the event, though a rotation wrecker service remained on standby.
Authorities emphasize that these checkpoints are essential for improving road safety and preventing collisions, particularly on high-traffic corridors like U.S. Highway 1. The Pinebluff Police Department remains committed to reducing accidents and ensuring safer communities through continued enforcement efforts.
All video and photos by Moore County News/Patrick Priest