Chris On Crime

Drug activity drives many of the crimes that we see in our county, including theft, break-ins, and robberies. Breaking that cycle is essential to improving public safety in both the short and long term.

If elected Sheriff, I will aggressively pursue drug dealers by committing to partnerships with local, state, and federal task forces. These partnerships bring additional personnel, investigative resources, and funding that can be reinvested directly into public safety without additional taxation for residents. That support allows us to focus on one of my top priorities: deputy retention. Those resources can be used to provide the tools deputies need to effectively fight drugs and crime. I want the Wilson County Sheriff’s Office to be a place where people build long-term careers - not just take a job and move on. Promoting from within will be a core part of that strategy. Strong retention means experienced deputies, consistent policing, and safer communities. When deputies make Wilson County their family’s home, their presence alone becomes a deterrent.

Participation in these task forces will also deter drug dealers from setting up operations in our county. Dealers know which counties actively work with state and federal partners and which do not. Our participation will deter them from using Wilson County as a conduit for illegal activity.

Alongside enforcement, I want to expand partnerships with treatment providers and job placement programs for appropriate candidates. Accountability must be paired with opportunities for rehabilitation. When we help individuals break the cycle of addiction through treatment, employment, and structure, crime rates decline and families are strengthened. That work begins with leadership willing to prioritize both public safety and long-term solutions.

I also plan to place School Resource Officers in every elementary school. This will create a safer learning environment for students and teachers while building trust with the next generation in Wilson County. Positive relationships between officers and students lead to better outcomes, helping children view law enforcement as a source of safety and support rather than fear.

If elected Sheriff, I will commit to increased visibility through proactive patrols in county communities such as Black Creek, Elm City, Lucama, Stantonsburg, Saratoga, Sims, and others. Presence goes a long way in deterring crime, and every resident of Wilson County deserves to feel safe. In addition, I want deputies actively involved in local events, church gatherings, and sporting events. Deputies should know the people they serve, and I will lead by example in building those relationships.

Public safety requires action, accountability, and trust. There are many ways we can improve how we serve our residents, and meaningful changes must be made. These are some of the steps I will take, along with continued improvements in training and administration. If elected Sheriff, I am committed to strengthening these services and earning the trust of our community-starting on day one.