WLBT 3 - Jackson, MS: Father and Son Accused of Making Moonshine and Explosives

Father and Son Accused of Making Moonshine and Explosives

By Julie Straw
Julie@wlbt.net

Bomb squads, state narcotics agents, and other law enforcement agencies converge on a mobile home on Highway 583 just south of Brookhaven.  According to Lincoln County Sheriff Steve Rushing, authorities were acting on a search warrant after an investigation that took months.  But what authorities found inside the residence even surprised them.

The mobile home is located at the end of a gravel road and is not visible from Highway 583, but the hidden away residence became the target of state narcotics agents and several other law enforcement agencies Friday morning. Neighbors describe dozens of patrol cars and a helicopter looming above.

"The helicopter, it was flying," said Brien Denning who lives closest to the mobile home.  "We got pictures.  He was right here with this light pole, not far above it."

When agents served the search warrant they found a small still, a small amount of mash, and moonshine inside the mobile home.  53-year-old Elton Rayford King was arrested on the alcohol related charges and for being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm.

What agents were surprised to find were possible bomb making materials and home made explosives. Bomb squads from Jackson and Clinton Police Departments were dispatched.  Nearby residents believe at least one explosive was detonated.

"It was just like something blew up," said Ashley Miller who heard the blast.  Officers may have been surprised to find the explosives, but neighbors knew all along.

"Ya, we knew," said Brenda Lard.  But when asked if it scared her she said, "No, because he didn't seem like the type that would hurt us."

It was not King who was blamed for the home made bombs, but rather his son John.  The 20 year old was arrested for charges related to the explosives.  Neighbors say king often bragged about his children.

"He said they are really smart," said Denning.  "They are in the National Guard.  He helps them as far as with the bombs."  Now both father and son are being held at the Lincoln County Jail.

Lincoln County Sheriff Steve Rushing says part of the search warrant was for drugs, in particular marijuana.  No drug charges were filed.