Published on: March 20, 2026, 09:39h.
Updated on: March 20, 2026, 09:39h.
- A man from North Carolina has been arrested for operating an illicit gambling operation.
- The operation also yielded illegal moonshine and an array of narcotics, including crystal meth and cocaine.
- The individual has an extensive criminal background.
Authorities in North Carolina discovered far more than just cash and illegal gaming devices while busting a suspected underground gambling venue.
On Wednesday, the Johnston County Sheriff’s Office conducted a raid on a property along Dragstrip Rd. near Benson following numerous community complaints regarding dubious activities at that location. The target was situated in the 800 block of Dragstrip close to Highway 242.
According to sheriff’s detectives, the search warrant led to the discovery of gambling machines and cash amounting to about $200,000. However, these items were not the only contraband seized during the operation.
Authorities disclosed that the operation also seized 58 gallons of moonshine, 160 grams of crystal meth, 197 grams of cocaine, and 52 grams of oxycodone.
The Narcotics Division of the Johnston County Sheriff’s Office collaborated with North Carolina Alcohol Law Enforcement to execute the operation.
Illegal Gambling Often Linked to Drug Activity
It’s common for illegal gambling establishments to be intertwined with other illicit activities.
Illegal drugs are frequently found alongside such unlawful gaming operations. The Johnston County Sheriff’s Office reported discovering at least four illegal gambling machines during their investigation.
This collaborative law enforcement effort successfully dismantled a key source of illegal activities and substances in the community. During the warrant execution, one individual tried to escape through the rear exit, carrying a significant amount of illegal drugs. Deputies and agents quickly apprehended this person and secured the premises, uncovering multiple illegal gaming devices,” stated the Johnston County Sheriff’s Office.
Danny Bruce Allen, from Benson, was apprehended for allegedly overseeing an underground gambling and drug operation. He faces serious charges including trafficking in cocaine, methamphetamine, possession of an unregulated liquor, maintaining a domicile for controlled substances, and trafficking oxycodone. If convicted of all charges, he could face extensive prison time.
Law enforcement emphasized that this sting operation aids in combatting “illegal drug and gambling operations that compromise the safety and health of the community.”
Moonshine continues to be a preferred alcoholic beverage in the rural areas of the Carolinas. This high-proof, unaged liquor is typically made from corn whiskey produced in homemade stills to avoid taxation.
Extensive Criminal Record
This is not Allen’s first encounter with law enforcement. Records indicate that he has been involved in over a dozen legal cases in Johnston County alone.
In 1991, he was unable to pay property taxes, which led to the NC Department of Revenue suing him and placing a lien on his property. The following year, he faced charges for possession of drug paraphernalia and moonshine. In 2001, he was convicted for driving under the influence.
Additional charges over the years include possession of illegal fireworks, marijuana, a stolen firearm, felony cannabis possession, maintaining a property for illegal drug sales, and simple assault.