An arrest was made this afternoon in connection with the disappearance of a Sampson County farmworker. On February 22, 2021 the family of David “Van” Alphin filed a missing person report with the Sampson County Sheriff’s Office. Alphin, a 35 year-old farm laborer, was last seen the morning of February 2nd at a hog farm where he worked on Elwood Road.
James Eric House, 35, of the 10400 block of N. US 421 Highway, Clinton was taken into custody at his home Monday afternoon without incident and formally charged with murder. He was held without bond at the Sampson County Detention Center.
Investigators are still seeking information as to the whereabouts of Alphin’s body.
Sheriff’s Lt. Marcus Smith said, “At this time, to protect the integrity of the on-going investigation we are unable to release any specifics as to what evidence has been located. We do pray the arrest begins to bring some closure to the Alphin family.”
Sheriff Jimmy Thornton added, “This has been a lengthy investigation, where Investigators have suspected malice from the on-set. Investigators have worked tirelessly to put the pieces of this very complex puzzle together and ensure justice is served. We are fortunate to live in a County where its citizens are willing to support and aide our investigators. Together, law enforcement and its citizenry cannot be stopped from putting an end to evil. My continued prayers go out to the Aphin family and friends.”
Authorities ask that anyone having information about the case to contact the Sampson County Sheriff’s Office at 910-592-4141.
