Temporary restraining order filed against Elizabeth City motel over ongoing crime

ELIZABETH CITY, N.C. (WITN) - A temporary restraining order has been filed against a motel in Elizabeth City accused of ongoing crime.

In November 2025, the Pasquotank County Sheriff’s Office and the Elizabeth City Police Department asked the North Carolina Alcohol Law Enforcement Division for help with issues at the Whistling Pines Motel on U.S. 17 South. An investigation started in December.

ALE’s Nuisance Abatement Team investigates crime-ridden properties and recommends civil action under Chapter 19 of the NC General Statutes to protect the community. They say a history of drug sales, overdoses, assaults, and prostitution was found on the property.

Following the investigation, Judge Andrew Womble signed a TRO against the motel’s owners and operators.

The order stops the property from being sold and requires all illegal activity to end. It also keeps new tenants from moving in while the case moves forward.