Halifax County Sheriff Wes Tripp confirmed this morning two Internet sweepstakes-type businesses are operating in Roanoke Rapids.

The City County Drug Task Force along with agents from state Alcohol Law Enforcement are actively investigating, along with Roanoke Rapids Police Chief Chuck Hasty.

Tripp said he has a meeting the first of the week with District Attorney Valerie Asbell and names of the operators will be released when arrests are made.

Whether the businesses are operating under a new online bid format or the more traditional sweepstakes businesses, is something that is still under investigation, he said. “If you choose to reopen, the sheriff's office will investigate.”

He would not confirm the specific names of the businesses until the investigation and conference with Asbell is completed.