Charlotte Once Had Its Own Hezbollah Terror Cell
Back in the mid 90s, terrorism was everywhere. But did you know Charlotte once had its own Hezbollah terror cell?
I was reminded of the sensational story while watching a CNN documentary last weekend. The series is called “Declassified” if you want to look it up.
FBI investigators discovered the terror cell after looking into shipments of cigarettes heading to northeastern states. Following months of surveillance, investigators were able to link the activity to fundraising for the terror group Hezbollah. Dubbed “Operation Smokescreen,” it was the first conviction for providing material support to terrorists.
The complicated case also involved charges of copyright violations, cigarette tax violations, counterfeiting, bank fraud, credit card fraud, bribery, identity theft, immigration fraud, and money laundering.
The Hezbollah cell used money from their criminal activities to purchase materials that aided terrorism around the globe. According to court affidavits, purchases included GPS equipment, night vision goggles, range finders, computer equipment, handheld radios and a host of other items.
A total of 18 people were tried and convicted in connection with the Charlotte Hezbollah case.
These Are The Most Dangerous, Violent Crime Ridden Cities In North Carolina
57. Winston Salem, NC
Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA Downtown Skyline.
The Triad’s Winston-Salem is the most dangerous city in North Carolina. Here there is a violent crime rate of 11.4 (per 1,000 residents) and a 1 in 87 chance of being a victim.
83. Fayetteville, NC
Fayetteville city sign
We have to skip a few spots down the list to find the next NC city named one of the most dangerous- Fayetteville. They are doing better with just a 1 in 103 chance of being a victim and a violent crime rate of 9.7.
86. Goldsboro, NC
goldsboro city pin on the map
Three spots down from Fayetteville is Goldsboro. Goldboro brings to the table the same 1 in 103 chance of being a victim. The city barely beats Fayetteville though with an 8.6 violent crime rate.
100. Rocky Mount
Welcome to North Carolina Sign
Rocky Mount you almost squeaked by without making the list. You were so close. Your 1 in 107 chance of being a victim and 9.3 violent crime rate make you the best of the worst in North Carolina.
