Questions & Answers

1. Why are you running for Sheriff of Carteret County?

I’m running because Carteret County deserves a Sheriff’s Office built on integrity, accountability, and genuine community partnership. I was raised right here, in a county that may be large in size but still feels like a close-knit community. I believe in a Sheriff’s Office where deputies know the citizens, and the citizens know the deputies.

My goal is to strengthen public safety, uphold professional standards, and ensure a Sheriff’s Office that reflects the values of the people it serves. My commitment is simple: leadership focused on service, accountability, and a strong connection with the community.

My goal is a Sheriff’s Office that sets the standard for excellence.

2. What makes you qualified for this role?

I bring over two decades of law enforcement service, extensive training, and a deep commitment to Carteret County. Throughout my career, I’ve built strong relationships with citizens, schools, churches, and local organizations, because people and families are at the center of every decision I make.

I’ve earned a reputation for professionalism, dedication, and accountability. Protecting Carteret County is a responsibility I take seriously, and I’ve always believed in being present, proactive, and engaged with the community. These experiences have prepared me to lead with integrity and uphold the standards our citizens expect.

4. What do you mean by “community policing”?

Community policing means deputies being part of the community—not separate from it. It involves building relationships, listening to citizens, understanding the unique needs of each area, and working together to prevent crime. Visibility, approachability, and consistent communication are essential to this approach.

6. What is your plan to address the drug problem in the county?

My focus is on proactive crime prevention, meaningful partnerships, and strong community engagement. By working closely with local organizations, schools, and service providers, we can address issues that impact public safety, support families, and strengthen the well-being of our county as a whole.

7. How will you support deputies and staff?

Leadership sets the standard. Deputies deserve strong training, reliable equipment, fair scheduling, and consistent support. I will prioritize morale, professional development, and a work environment rooted in accountability and respect.

My goal is to ensure every deputy feels valued, prepared, and supported, because their success directly impacts the safety and confidence of our citizens.

8. How will you keep schools and youth safe?

Keeping our youth safe is non-negotiable. I will work closely with school administrators to maintain strong safety protocols, strengthen communication between School Resource Officers and families, and expand prevention programs for young people.

Building relationships with juvenile justice partners and youth-focused organizations will also be a key part of preventing problems before they arise.

9. What sets you apart from the other candidates?

I’m deeply invested in Carteret County—I grew up here, my family is here, and this is home. My commitment comes from personal experience and long-standing relationships throughout the county.

I believe the Sheriff’s Office must always put the citizens first. I’m focused on enhancing safety, strengthening community partnerships, and building confidence in the office through high standards and accountable leadership.

11. How will you build trust with communities that feel disconnected from law enforcement?

Building trust begins with listening. I will hold regular community meetings, create opportunities for citizens to speak directly with command staff, and ensure deputies are consistently visible and engaged—not only during emergency calls.

People feel connected when they feel heard, respected, and included. That will be a priority every day.

12. How will you handle budgeting and taxpayer dollars?

I will treat every dollar as if it belongs to the people—because it does. My approach is responsible budgeting, clear reporting practices, and investing in tools and training that directly support public safety.

My focus is a Sheriff’s Office that is efficient, accountable, and focused on results that benefit the citizens.

13. What is your stance on mental health and crisis intervention?

Mental-health emergencies must be handled with skill and compassion. I will expand crisis-intervention training, emphasize active listening and de-escalation, and work with healthcare partners to ensure individuals receive appropriate care.

This approach keeps both citizens and deputies safer and strengthens community support systems.

14. How will you work with other local, state, and federal agencies?

Teamwork is essential to effective public safety. I will strengthen partnerships with police departments, EMS, fire services, state agencies, and federal partners. When agencies communicate and coordinate, the entire county benefits—especially during complex cases or large-scale emergencies.

15. What changes will you make to improve response times?

Improving response times requires smart staffing, strong supervision, and strategic patrol deployment. I will analyze call data to position deputies where they are needed most and ensure they have the tools to respond quickly.

Carteret County is large geographically, and response times can be challenging—my goal is to use resources efficiently to best serve our citizens.

16. How will you ensure fairness and equal treatment under the law?

Every citizen in Carteret County deserves equal treatment. I will promote strong policies on professionalism, reinforce training on unbiased service, and uphold accountability at every level.

Respect, fairness, and integrity will guide all decisions within the Sheriff’s Office.

17. What is your plan to retain and recruit quality deputies?

Retention begins with leadership. Deputies stay where they feel valued, supported, and given opportunities to grow. I will focus on competitive benefits, professional development, and a work culture rooted in accountability and respect.

When you create the right environment, quality deputies want to serve—and stay.

18. What role will technology play in your administration?

Technology is a valuable tool for modern public safety. I will prioritize improved communication systems, data-informed decision-making, and upgraded equipment to help deputies serve more effectively. All technology decisions will balance efficiency with the privacy expectations of our citizens.

19. How will you handle disasters and emergencies, such as hurricanes?

Preparedness is essential in Carteret County. I will strengthen emergency response plans, support coordination with local agencies, and ensure deputies have the training and equipment needed for crisis situations.

During disasters, strong communication and steady leadership help protect lives and property.

20. What is your message to voters who are undecided?

I invite citizens to look at the values I stand for: integrity, accountability, and service. My commitment is to listen, uphold strong standards, and work tirelessly to keep Carteret County safe.

I’m ready to serve, ready to lead, and ready to support the community that shaped me.

24. How will you ensure professionalism within the department?

Professionalism begins with leadership and continues through consistent standards, training, and accountability. I expect every employee to represent the office with integrity and respect, because the badge symbolizes a commitment to service.

Strong standards and dedicated leadership guide every aspect of the Sheriff’s Office.

25. What is your vision for the future of the Sheriff’s Office?

My vision is a modern, community-focused Sheriff’s Office—one that is proactive, engaged, and committed to the citizens it serves. I want an agency known for its high standards, strong accountability, and genuine partnership with the community.

Carteret County deserves a Sheriff’s Office that leads with integrity and works alongside the people every day.