A four month investigation into an illegal whiskey making operation in Winston County culminated November 1, 2006, resulting in the seizure of a large still. The 16-barrel operation and 250-gallon stainless steel cooker was capable of producing around 100 gallons of moonshine a week.

Agents seized 750 pounds of sugar, 19 gallons of moonshine, a 2000 Chevrolet truck, and a 2005 Honda ATV. The still was destroyed by agents after evidence was collected. At this time no one has been arrested in connection with the still. The case will be presented to the Winston County District Attorney’s office for further action.

Since July 1, 2006, state ABC agents have destroyed 2 illegal distillery operations. In the state’s prior fiscal year that ended June 30, 2006, ABC agents destroyed a total of 12 stills. “Moonshine investigations are still a big part of what we do” says Mark Hicks, Chief of Enforcement for the state ABC. “This type of investigation can consume hundreds of man hours before an arrest is made. It’s hard work.”

Chief Hicks also announced plans to get the word out about the dangers of drinking moonshine. A grant from the National Alcohol Beverage Control Association (NABCA) allowed the Mississippi ABC to print posters about the dangers of drinking moonshine. “You will soon see these posters at courthouses and public buildings and hopefully it will prompt citizens to report violations” says Hicks.

Kathy Waterbury
Director of Communications
Mississippi Tax Commission
kwaterbu@mstc.state.ms.us
601-923-7401