Moonshine arrest made on Old South Quay Road

Published 11:46 am Monday, September 17, 2012

SUFFOLK—Liquor control agents on Friday arrested a North Carolina man for allegedly selling moonshine from an Old South Quay Road location in Suffolk.

About 24 gallons of moonshine were seized as well as the 1990 Chevrolet pickup driven by suspect Claude L. Parker, 59, of Hudson Park Lane, Gates County, according to the Virginia Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control.

“The undercover investigation began three months ago based on complaints of someone selling illegal liquor to residents,” said Robert Brooks, special agent in charge of ABC’s Hampton Regional Office. “ABC undercover operatives purchased moonshine from Parker on several occasions leading up to the arrest. The moonshine sold for $55 per gallon.”

Parker was charged with four counts of selling untaxed liquor and possession of untaxed liquor, and three counts of transporting more than three gallons of liquor across a state line.

All charges are misdemeanors punishable by up to a year in jail, a $2,500 fine, or both, per charge.

Agents do not believe Parker manufactured the moonshine, according to the release. An investigation into the source is continuing.

Parker was released on personal recognizance and will appear in Suffolk General District Court.