Southern Shores Police Conduct Checkpoint, Leading to Drug Arrest
On a breezy evening in Southern Shores, North Carolina, the local police were on the lookout for impaired drivers. It all unfolded on September 8th, 2024, when officers from the Southern Shores Police Department set up a checkpoint on S. Dogwood Trail at the intersection of Mallard Cove Loop. The goal was simple yet critical: to ensure the safety of everyone on the road.
The atmosphere was calm, and the sun had just begun to dip below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the town. As cars flowed through the checkpoint, officers diligently conducted checks, keenly observing drivers for any signs of impairment. It wasn’t long before their attentiveness paid off.
What Happened Next?
During their checks, officers detected something suspicious about the behavior of a particular driver. That instinct led to the decision that turned into a significant arrest. The driver, identified as Sunny Berle, age 40, of Southern Shores, showed signs of being driving while impaired. With probable cause established, the officers proceeded to conduct a thorough investigation.
As they delved deeper, the situation escalated when officers unearthed not just any illicit item, but cocaine and various drug paraphernalia. This kind of discovery is always a cause for concern, and it’s a reminder of the challenges that law enforcement faces in maintaining community safety.
Charges and Consequences
Due to the outcomes of their investigation, Sunny Berle was charged with multiple offenses: Driving While Impaired, Felony Possession of Cocaine, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. After the arrest, Berle was promptly transported to the Dare County Detention Center, where a secured bond of $4,000 was set.
It’s crucial to note that this incident underscores the ongoing efforts by local authorities to combat impaired driving in the area. Checkpoints like the one on S. Dogwood Trail play a vital role in preventing accidents and ensuring that roads are less hazardous for all drivers.
Upcoming Community Events
As always, community engagement is key, and events like these help foster unity in Southern Shores. We can all look forward to a blend of education, entertainment, and awareness surrounding the incidents that shape our town.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the recent checkpoint and arrest serve as a reminder of the importance of responsible driving. The commitment of the Southern Shores Police Department to keep the roads safe for everyone is commendable, and we can all play our part by staying vigilant. The balance between enjoying local events and ensuring safety can be difficult, but it’s one that we all must strive for.
So, whether you’re planning to attend the film society’s upcoming screenings or simply enjoying a quiet evening in Southern Shores, remember to look out for one another, stay safe, and perhaps even spark a conversation about responsible choices with friends and family.

Author: STAFF HERE OUTER BANKS WRITER
The OBX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOBX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in the Outer Banks, Dare County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Outer Banks Seafood Festival, NC VIP Fishing Tournament, and NCBBA Red Drum Tournament. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Outer Banks Chamber of Commerce and Outer Banks Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in tourism, retail, and hospitality that power the local economy such as Kitty Hawk Kites, Outer Banks Mall, and Avon Fishing Pier. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, and HERERaleigh.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.


