FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

WEDNESDAY - September 17, 2008

WILMINGTON MAN SENTENCED TO 20 YEARS IN PRISON
ON GUN AND DRUG CHARGES

WILMINGTON - United States Attorney George E.B. Holding announced that in federal court yesterday Senior United States District Judge James C. Fox sentenced RAOUL KEVIN COLE, 52, of Wilmington, North Carolina, to 240 months’ imprisonment followed by five years of supervised release.

A three-count Criminal Information was filed on April 24, 2008 charging conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute more than 50 grams of cocaine base (crack), and two counts of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. On May 27, 2008, COLE pled guilty to the charges. On January 22, 2007, COLE was arrested while transporting a stolen all-terrain vehicle. During a search of the vehicle, a .32 caliber revolver and a box of ammunition were uncovered. It was learned that COLE was a convicted felon and the nightclub COLE owned in Wilmington had substantial illicit narcotic activity. On March 10, 2007, an inspection of the nightclub was conducted. During the inspection, officers seized crack cocaine, a stolen .44 caliber handgun, and 13 gallons of non-tax paid liquor. Shortly after the inspection COLE relocated his business. On July 6, 2007, after agents witnessed COLE exchange cash and a piece of crack cocaine for a .12 gauge shotgun a search warrant was obtained and executed on his business, vehicle and residence. During this search, agents seized a .44 caliber revolver, shotgun ammunition, three ounces of marijuana, cash, a loaded .357 caliber revolver, a box of .32 caliber ammunition, and a .223 caliber rifle.

Investigation of the case was conducted by the New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Ethan Ontjes served as prosecutor for the government.

News releases are available on the U. S. Attorney’s web page at www.usdoj.gov/usao/nce within 48 hours of release.