LENOIR, N.C. — Hundreds of people went to an auction in Caldwell County Wednesday, hoping to buy items seized during two drug busts.
Cars, four-wheelers, and yard equipment were a few of the things being sold to pay taxes on the drugs that were seized.
In 2023, auctions organized by sheriff’s offices, like the one on Wednesday, brought in more than $10 million statewide, and 75% of the money goes back to local sheriff’s offices.
People were in line 90 minutes before the auction started to register.
“Whatever you can make a dollar on maybe flip, make a couple of dollars,” resident Jason Ledford said.
Deputies said auctions like this serve as a deterrent to people in the area who have illegal drugs.
Organizers stated that suspects only need to be found in possession of narcotics, not necessarily convicted of the crime.
Sheriff deputies said the items came from homes where they seized meth and fentanyl over the last year.
Suspects are required to pay taxes on the drugs that investigators seize. Officers take items from suspects’ homes to help pay those taxes.
“That’s how they got to do it, I guess,” said resident Leonard Webster. “You do the crime, you do the time and also pay the bill.”
“The money going back to the community, which is good,” said resident Dara Wells. “And it helps raise money for the officers and stuff.”
The sheriff’s office said the tax money collected at auctions helps pay for new equipment and operations. In addition, it funds a program that serves as a deterrent for those possessing drugs.
“If you deal drugs in Caldwell County and we find you, your property will be seized and it will be sold,” said Sgt. Brad Haas, Caldwell County Sheriff’s Office.
The Department of Revenue said a person doesn’t have to be convicted before the auctions. Wednesday’s auction brought in nearly $25,000.
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