News Flash

CARTERET COUNTY, N.C. (April 1, 2026) – Carteret County Department of Social Services (DSS) will host a pinwheel planting at the Carteret County Courthouse in Beaufort at 9 a.m. Monday, April 6, to recognize National Child Abuse Prevention Month. Joining DSS are our partners: NC Guardian ad Litem (GAL) District 4, the Carteret County Children’s Advocacy Center, and other community organizations.

The pinwheel is a national symbol of child abuse prevention, representing the hope, health, and happiness of all children. Communities across the country plant pinwheel gardens in April to raise awareness about child abuse.

After the planting, a community walk will take place. Attendees are encouraged to wear blue to show support. Those who cannot attend can plant pinwheels at home or work and share photos on social media.

Child abuse is a serious issue in the United States. In 2022, about 550,000 children were victims of abuse or neglect. Nearly 2,000 children died from abuse, a number that has risen steadily over the past five years, according to the National Children’s Alliance. Studies also show that 1 in 4 girls and 1 in 13 boys experience abuse. Awareness and prevention are important in every community.

The pinwheel garden will stay on display through April 30.

To report suspected child abuse or neglect, contact the Carteret County DSS at 252-728-3181, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. After hours, on weekends, or during holidays, call the County Communications Center at 252-726-1911 or dial 911 in an emergency.

For more information on child abuse prevention, visit preventchildabusenc.org. To learn about the Guardian ad Litem Program, visit volunteerforgal.org or call 252-639-3232.

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CARTERET COUNTY, N.C. (April 1, 2026) – Carteret County is hosting a free latex paint recycling program throughout the month of April. Residents can drop off old or unused paint at two locations: 800 Hibbs Rd. in Newport and 485 Harkers Island Rd. in Otway.

The Carteret County Solid Waste Division continues this yearly project to keep waste out of landfills and help the environment. When residents recycle their latex paint, it can be turned into new paint or other products. This prevents harmful chemicals from leaking into local soil or water. All donated paint will also go to Habitat for Humanity projects to help build local homes.

To join the program, residents should bring paint in its original container with the label still attached. The paint must be in liquid form (paint that has not hardened or become a solid mass) or it will not be accepted. Please note that oil-based paints, solvents like turpentine and creosote and unlabeled cans are not part of this program.

“Recycling paint is a simple way to protect our environment,” Billy Merkley, Public Works director for Carteret County, said. “By keeping these items out of landfills, we are saving natural resources and finding new ways to use old materials.”

If you have items that are not accepted, like oil-based paints, you can bring them to the Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day on Saturday, April 25.

For more information about the recycling program, visit carteretcountync.gov or call the Public Works Department at 252-648-7878.

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CARTERET COUNTY, N.C. (April 1, 2026) – The Carteret County Board of Commissioners proclaimed April 2026 as Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM) during its March 31 meeting. The County joins Carteret S.P.E.A.K. and the nation in recognizing the 25th anniversary of National Sexual Assault Awareness Month.

The proclamation focuses on educating the community about how to prevent sexual assault and how to provide support for survivors. The 2026 SAAM theme, “25 Years Stronger: Looking Back, Moving Forward,” is a call to action for the Crystal Coast community. It asks residents to honor survivors and work toward a future where every person in Carteret County feels safe and respected.

Carteret S.P.E.A.K. (which stands for Support, Prevention, Empowerment, Advocacy, and Knowledge) remains the primary resource for survivors in the county.

"This month is about more than just awareness; it’s about solidarity," said Vicki Wank, Carteret S.P.E.A.K. director. "By looking back at how far we’ve come and moving forward with a focus on healing, we can continue to change the culture right here in our own backyard."

Sexual violence is a broad term for any unwanted sexual contact. This includes harassment, stalking, and sharing images without consent. Recent data shows the importance of this issue, revealing that over 53% of women and 29% of men experience contact sexual violence in their lifetime. Most survivors are harmed by someone they know, which shows why community awareness is so important.

“We are here to let survivors know we believe them, it is not their fault, and they are not alone,” Wank said.

Carteret S.P.E.A.K. invites residents, local businesses, and community leaders to attend three main events in April:

• Take Back the Night: 6 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, April 7: Carteret S.P.E.A.K. office, 300 Penny Lane, Morehead City. Visitors can browse a plant sale, learn about services for survivors, and join a walk of solidarity.
• TAPS, Talent, Art, Poetry Social: 2 to 4 p.m. Saturday, April 18: Morehead City Parks and Recreation, 1600 Fisher St. Call 252-504-3668 to register. All are welcome to share their talents or watch others celebrate community through songs, art, and poetry.
• Denim Day: Wednesday, April 29: Residents are encouraged to wear denim to work or school to speak out against myths that blame victims. This global movement started after a 1998 court ruling wrongly suggested a victim's tight jeans implied consent.

Carteret S.P.E.A.K. provides crisis help, support, and prevention services to survivors across Carteret County. Through education and outreach, the program works to build a safer environment for everyone. The program’s mission is to help neighbors find their voices while encouraging the community to speak up for survivors and take steps toward prevention.

Community members can support the program by attending events, volunteering, or sharing resources. For help or more information, please contact 252-504-3668. For more resources, visit carteretcountync.gov/SPEAK.

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CARTERET COUNTY, N.C. (March 2, 2026) – As property fraud schemes grow more complex, the Carteret County Register of Deeds is reminding residents of the Recording Notification Service (RNS), a free tool designed to safeguard property records.

RNS provides property owners with instant email updates whenever a document is recorded in their name. By delivering details like recording dates and instrument numbers directly to an owner's inbox, the service ensures that no activity goes unnoticed. This proactive measure allows residents to monitor activity on their property records and flag suspicious recordings.

“Fraudulent activity surrounding property ownership is becoming increasingly sophisticated,” said Karen Hardesty, Carteret County Register of Deeds. “This service provides individuals with the tools to monitor their property records and safeguard their investments.”

The service is free and allows residents to register up to 10 names per email address. To ensure maximum protection, officials recommend residents register variations of their names, including middle initials, as well as any business or trust names they may use. Once registered at the Register of Deeds website, property owners receive an email notification each time a document is recorded in their name.        

While the RNS helps inform the public about potentially fraudulent activity, Hardesty noted that the service does not give the Register of Deeds Office the authority to remove recorded documents. Its primary purpose is to notify property owners so they can take legal action if necessary.

Residents can stay vigilant by visiting the "Recording Notification Service" section under the Register of Deeds page at www.carteretcountync.gov. 

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CARTERET COUNTY, N.C. (March 2, 2026) – With 7,677 ballots already cast—a 13.4% early turnout—Carteret County election officials are preparing for a final surge of voters for the March primary on Tuesday. Voters who have not yet voted can cast their ballots Tuesday, March 3, from 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. at polling places across the county. Anyone in line by 7:30 p.m. will be allowed to vote.

In the primary election, voters select party nominees who will advance to the general election on Nov. 3, 2026. Contests on the ballot include federal offices, such as U.S. House and U.S. Senate, the state office of N.C. Court of Appeals, and Republican primary contests for county sheriff, county commissioner in Districts 1, 3, and 6, and board of education in District 1.

County commissioner and board of education races are elected by district in the primary and countywide in the general election. The Morehead City mayor race is nonpartisan and only open to voters living within the city limits.

Party-affiliated voters may vote only in their party’s primary, while unaffiliated voters may choose one party’s primary ballot. On Election Day, voters must vote at their assigned precinct. To find your assigned polling location, visit the Election Day Polling Place Search on the State Board of Elections website. Voters may also review a sample ballot and confirm voting requirements by accessing their voter record on the state website.

All voters are required to show an acceptable photo ID. For a full list of acceptable IDs and information on obtaining a free voter ID, visit the North Carolina State Board of Elections website at https://www.ncsbe.gov/voting/voter-id.

After polls close, unofficial results for early voting, mail-in absentee ballots, and Election Day precincts will be posted on the State Board of Elections results page.

For additional information about the 2026 primary election, visit the Carteret County Board of Elections website at www.carteretcountync.gov/434/Board-of-Elections or contact the Board of Elections Office at (252) 728-8460.

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CARTERET COUNTY, N.C. (Feb. 23, 2026) – The Carteret County Department of Social Services (DSS) has received a $7,807 donation from Jim Dandy Convenience Stores, Coca-Cola Consolidated, and the Humanitarian Endowment for Lasting Public Support (H.E.L.P.S.) to benefit local foster care programs. The contribution will fund after-school learning opportunities, community connections, and financial support for foster children and families.

The donation was made possible through a month-long campaign last December, during which a portion of proceeds from Coca-Cola bottle sales at Jim Dandy stores in Carteret and Craven counties were allocated to the cause. Coca-Cola Consolidated matched the funds, bringing the total to $7,807. This initiative was part of Jim Dandy’s successful “Round Up” program, which allows patrons to contribute to H.E.L.P.S. to benefit local organizations like Carteret County DSS.

“We’re so thankful for this support and for the partnership behind it,” said Jessica Adams, director of Carteret County DSS. “Donations like this go a long way in helping us meet the needs of our foster children and the families who care for them. It helps ease some of the financial strain and allows us to focus on making sure every child has the opportunity to grow and succeed in a safe, supportive home.”

This marks the sixth consecutive year that Jim Dandy and Coca-Cola Consolidated have collaborated to support Carteret County’s foster care program. Over the past six years, their efforts have raised a total of over $32,000.

“It’s always encouraging to see how our store teams and customers step up when there’s a need,” said James Davis, president of J.M. Davis Industries, Inc., the parent company of Jim Dandy Convenience Stores, Davis Fuels, and H.E.L.P.S. “The ‘Round Up’ campaign is a simple way to make a real impact, and those small donations add up quickly. We’re proud to support Carteret County DSS and help strengthen the community we call home.”

H.E.L.P.S., a non-profit organization founded in 1992 by the late J.M. Davis Jr., has contributed over $700,000 to more than 250 local non-profit and charitable events since its inception. Jim Dandy Convenience Stores, Davis Fuels, and H.E.L.P.S. are sister organizations wholly owned and managed by J.M. Davis Industries, Inc., a family-owned business based in Morehead City that has been in operation since 1939.

Currently, Carteret County has 72 children in foster care, with 28 placed with relatives such as aunts, uncles, or grandparents.

For more information about the Foster Care Program, how to donate, or how to become a foster parent, contact the Carteret County Department of Social Services at 252-728-3181 or email Noah Tucker at Noah.Tucker@carteretcountync.gov.

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CARTERET COUNTY, N.C. (Dec. 29, 2025) – Carteret County has selected William Charles Matthias II to serve as its new Emergency Services Director beginning Jan. 26, 2026, bringing more than 18 years of leadership experience across fire, emergency medical services and ocean rescue operations in coastal North Carolina.

In this role, Matthias will oversee Carteret County’s emergency management, emergency medical services, emergency communications and the Office of the Fire Marshal. The Emergency Services Department coordinates countywide preparedness, response and recovery efforts for natural, technological and man-made disasters, including pandemic events. The department also provides 24-hour emergency medical response, manages the county’s 9-1-1 Emergency Communications Center as the primary public safety answering point, and administers fire prevention, inspections, investigations and life safety education programs throughout the county.

Matthias joins Carteret County from his current role as Fire Chief in the Town of Emerald Isle, where he leads a comprehensive emergency services operation that includes fire suppression, EMS and U.S. Life Saving Association-certified ocean rescue services. His experience overseeing a $3.9 million budget, managing a full-time and seasonal workforce, and responding to more than 1,600 calls annually positions him well to lead the County’s Emergency Services operations.

During his time in Emerald Isle, Matthias assisted in guiding the department to achieve an ISO Class 3 rating in 2021, reflecting strong operational performance and community risk reduction efforts. He secured SAFER and Assistance to Firefighters grants to enhance staffing levels and modernize self-contained breathing apparatus equipment. He also implemented data-driven deployment strategies that improved response outcomes across the primary service area and strengthened hazard mitigation and preparedness efforts in a coastal environment.

Earlier in his career, Matthias served as a fire captain and firefighter-EMT with Wildwood Fire & Rescue, where he led structural firefighting operations, extrication and marine rescue responses, while mentoring and training personnel in operational safety and accountability. He began his career with the Emerald Isle Fire Department, supporting both fire and EMS operations.

“William understands what it takes to lead emergency services in a coastal community,” said County Manager Sharon Griffin. “He has hands-on experience, a strong grasp of operations and a leadership style that fits well with our organization. We’re excited to welcome him and look forward to the experience he brings to the County.”

“I’m thankful for the opportunity to serve Carteret County,” Matthias said. “Emergency services work depends on preparation, teamwork and trust. I’m looking forward to getting to know the team, listening, and building on the solid foundation already in place.”

Matthias holds a Master of Public Administration in emergency services management and a Bachelor of Science in fire administration from Columbia Southern University, as well as an Associate of Science in fire science. His credentials include North Carolina Fire Officer III, EMT certification, completion of the North Carolina Executive Fire Officer Program, extensive NIMS/ICS training, and U.S. Life Saving Association open water lifeguard instructor certification.

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CARTERET COUNTY, NC (December 5, 2025) – Carteret County has launched its 15-year Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan and Shoreline Access Plan, a long-range effort that will guide future growth, services, and overall quality of life. Residents are invited to take an active role in shaping the future of parks, recreation, and shoreline access across the county.

"Systemwide master plans typically provide a 10 to 15-year outlook, and the last update to the plan was in 2015," said County Parks and Recreation Director Tina Purifoy. "Since then, Carteret County has experienced significant growth in both population and land use. Our peak-season population also continues to rise each year. By evaluating current conditions and anticipated trends, the County aims to create a data-driven plan that reflects the community's goals."

The planning process will be led by McGill Associates, a firm experienced in supporting coastal communities throughout North Carolina. Work is now underway with inventory analysis, needs assessment, and public engagement.

Community engagement opportunities include:

• Public Survey: Residents can share their priorities and preferences through an online survey available on the project website.
• Pop-up Engagement Activities: Informal opportunities for feedback will be offered at community events. Dates and locations are available online.
• Public Input Community Meetings: Meetings will be held in various areas of the county to gather broader input and encourage participation.

The project will continue into 2026 with the development of strategies and recommendations, with the final plan expected to be completed and considered for adoption in summer 2026. For updates on the planning process and future engagement opportunities, visit the project website: www.carteretparksandrecplan.us.

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CARTERET COUNTY, N.C. (October 20, 2025) – The Carteret County Health Department has been recognized as the 2025 Dr. Sarah Taylor Morrow Health Department of the Year by the North Carolina Public Health Association (NCPHA). This award is presented annually to one small and one large county health department for outstanding programs, leadership, and measurable impact on community health.

“We are so fortunate to have exceptional employees at the Carteret County Health Department. Their focus is to provide the best service and care to our clients and to our community. Their hard work and dedication are so appreciated,” said Public Health Director, Nina Oliver.

The department provides a wide range of services that protect and improve the health of Carteret County residents, from maternal and child health programs to environmental health, communicable disease control, and community education. While all of these services contribute to the department’s success, the application process required highlighting one program. Carteret County chose to showcase the Post Overdose Response Team (PORT), which has quickly become a model across the state.

PORT launched in August 2023 to provide immediate, trauma-informed support to overdose survivors. The team is staffed by a full-time manager and five certified peer support specialists whose lived experience enables them to connect with clients in ways traditional clinical care sometimes cannot. PORT receives real-time alerts from the county’s 911 system and responds alongside emergency medical services and law enforcement. Team members meet survivors at the scene or in the hospital, then follow up within hours to offer continued assistance and connections to treatment and recovery services.

Carteret County’s overdose death rate fell from 41.7 to 12.9 per 100,000 residents, a 69 percent decline over two years, highlighting the significant impact of the county’s efforts. Emergency room overdose visits have been cut in half. The number of clients entering treatment nearly tripled in 2024 compared with the prior year. Follow-up contacts increased from 343 to more than 1,150, and more than 80 percent of identified clients have engaged with PORT services.

“Carteret County is proud of the health department and everything they do to keep our community healthy,” said County Manager Sharon Griffin. “Whether it’s the everyday services families rely on or innovative programs like PORT, their team shows how public health can make a real difference in people’s lives.”

This recognition highlights the collective work of the Carteret County Health Department and affirms its role as a leader in public health innovation. Building on this success, the department will continue expanding programs that protect health, prevent disease, and improve quality of life for all residents.

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CARTERET COUNTY, N.C. (Sept. 10, 2025) – A record 65 participants from the Carteret County Senior Games have qualified and registered to attend the 2025 North Carolina Senior Games State Finals. This is the largest contingent the county has ever sent to the championship event.

The State Finals will be held in Raleigh beginning Sept. 15, 2025, bringing together thousands of athletes and artists from across the state.

“This is an incredible milestone for Carteret County,” said Darlene Austin, Carteret County Parks and Recreation program supervisor and local coordinator for the Senior Games. “Sending 65 participants to the State Finals shows the dedication, enthusiasm and spirit of our senior community. We are so proud of their accomplishments and excited to cheer them on in Raleigh.”

The local qualifiers earned their spots by winning gold medals in a diverse range of events at the local games this spring, from athletic competitions like swimming and track to artistic pursuits like painting and creative writing.

The Carteret County Senior Games are part of a statewide network designed to celebrate healthy aging through fun, fellowship and friendly competition.

“Every single one of our participants has shown amazing dedication and heart,” said Tina Purifoy, Carteret County Parks and Recreation Director. “This isn’t just about winning medals. It’s about staying active, nurturing friendships and trying new things. We are tremendously proud of our local participants, volunteers and staff.”

The North Carolina Senior Games, established in 1983, promotes year-round health, wellness and education for adults 50 and older. The State Finals, first held in 1985, feature more than 70 sports and arts competitions. Winners will qualify for the National Senior Games, held every two years.

For more information about the Carteret County Senior Games, contact Darlene Austin at 252-222-5858 or visit ccpr.recdesk.com.

For a full schedule of State Finals events, visit https://www.ncseniorgames.org/ncsgsf.

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CARTERET COUNTY, N.C. (July 29, 2025) – Carteret County, Core Care, and Carteret Health Care (CHC) today announced an upcoming transition in primary care services at the Sea Level clinic, located at 458 Hwy 70 in eastern Carteret County. Beginning in August, and following approval of a new lease agreement at the July 21 meeting of the Carteret County Board of Commissioners, Core Care will begin serving the community at this location, taking over operations currently managed by Carteret Health Care. This transition is designed to bring a broader range of comprehensive and convenient healthcare options to Down East residents.

Carteret County owns the building and has worked closely with both providers to ensure patients continue to receive care without interruption. The new clinic operated by Core Care will initially be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday with plans to expand to five days a week. Importantly, it will also begin accepting walk-ins and new patients with expanded scheduling availability. The on-site pharmacy, still operated by CHC, will remain available to support patient needs.

“We understand that changes in local healthcare can raise questions,” said Chris Chadwick, Chairman of the Carteret County Board of Commissioners. “We’re grateful for Carteret Health Care’s long-standing commitment to the Down East community. This transition builds on that strong foundation. Residents will continue to have reliable access to care close to home, with the same level of service available in Morehead City and Beaufort, along with new options such as urgent care. This is about strengthening and expanding what’s already here.”

Core Care will offer a full range of primary care for patients of all ages, including:

• Preventive Care: Routine check-ups, physicals, immunizations, wellness exams, and cancer screenings. Patients benefit from consistent, personalized medical care with the same provider.
• Chronic Disease Management: Ongoing support for conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and COPD.
• Acute and Chronic Pain Management: Evaluation and treatment options for both short-term and long-standing pain, available to new and existing patients.
• Acute Care: Diagnosis and treatment of minor illnesses, infections, and injuries with walk-in availability for immediate needs.
• Behavioral Health Support: Screening and care for depression, anxiety, and substance-use disorders, with referrals when needed.
• Geriatric Services: Focused care for older adults.
• Specialist Referrals: Coordinated access to specialist care to support patients’ ongoing health needs through the Carteret Health Care system or other facilities and networks.

In addition, Core Care will offer modern wellness and specialty services, including:

• Cosmetic medicine such as Botox and Jeuveau
• IV drip therapy
• Medical weight loss programs
• Testosterone replacement therapy

“We’re proud to bring high-quality, patient-centered care to the Down East community,” said Dr. Ramesh Krishnaraj, President & Chief Medical Officer at Core Care. “Our model expands not only how care is delivered, but who can access it. Walk-ins, new patients, and individuals in need of both clinical and preventive services will be well served at this location.”

This transition also opens the door for stronger connections between healthcare and other County programs.

"We're excited about how this transition allows us to further integrate the clinic's services with other community programs like Senior Services, Transportation, Social Services, Veterans Services, and Public Health," said Dr. Randall Williams, Consolidated Human Services Director for Carteret County. "This really helps us create a more integrated, wraparound system of care for the entire Down East community. As part of the transition, we're also making minor facility upgrades, including fresh paint and new greenery, to enhance the patient experience."

CHC, which has provided care in the Down East community for many years, is working in coordination with partners on this transition. CHC will continue to support patients through the operation of the on-site pharmacy.

"Our mission has always been about keeping care close to home and making sure every patient feels supported," said Dr. Clyde Brooks, VP of Medical Staff Services at Carteret Health Care. "While this is a new chapter for Sea Level, the same commitment to compassionate, patient-first care remains. We are proud to continue operating the on-site pharmacy so patients have convenient access to prescriptions. We’re also proud of our Sea Level team and confident Core Care will build on this strong foundation to deliver even more care options for the Down East community.”

A public open house will be held at the clinic in August, giving residents a chance to tour the facility, meet the new providers, and learn more about the expanded services. Core Care is expected to begin seeing patients later in the month. For more information, visit www.corecarelife.com. To schedule an appointment, call or text 252-275-3792 or email info@corecarelife.com.

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CARTERET COUNTY, N.C. (July 22, 2025) – Newly appointed members of the Carteret County Board of Elections were sworn in Tuesday to begin their two-year terms.

Clerk of Court Ken Raper administered the oaths at the Board of Elections office in Beaufort. Republican appointees Jeanette Deese, Dale Gillikin, and Barbara Ann Smith joined Democratic appointees Susan Cuthrell and Gerald Godette to form the five-member board.

Deese, who previously served as the Board of Elections secretary, was appointed to serve as chair by State Auditor Dave Boliek as part of a statewide set of appointments announced on June 24, 2025. During its organizational meeting, the board unanimously elected Susan Cuthrell as the new secretary.

Under state law, each political party in the county submits three recommendations to the State Board of Elections. The State Board appoints two members from each party to form a four-member board. The State Auditor selects the fifth member to serve as chair.

County boards of elections are responsible for administering local elections, operating polling sites, maintaining voter registration lists, appointing election officials, and certifying results. Board members may not publicly advocate for political causes or run for elected office during their service.

The newly seated board will serve through July 2027. Planning is already underway for the November 2025 municipal elections.

For more information about the Carteret County Board of Elections, visit www.carteretcountync.gov/434/Board-of-Elections.

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CARTERET COUNTY, N.C. (July 22, 2025) – The Leon Mann Jr. Enrichment Center, home to Carteret County Senior Services, has again been designated a Center of Excellence by the North Carolina Division of Aging and Adult Services (NCDAAS), the highest recognition available to senior centers in the state. This certification is valid for five years.

“This certification reflects the dedication of our staff to serve older adults in Carteret County with high-quality programs and services,” said Senior Center Director Shelly Ashley. “We’re committed to creating a place where older adults feel supported, connected, and empowered. This top state honor shows we’re meeting that goal.”

The Carteret County Senior Center has held the Center of Excellence designation for more than a decade, demonstrating a long-standing commitment to quality care and programming for residents 50 and older. It is one of just 84 centers in North Carolina to currently hold the designation, out of more than 171 across the state.

Certification is based on NCDAAS’s Senior Center Operations and Program Evaluation (SCOPE). This review process evaluates a center’s performance in key areas such as outreach and access, programming, staffing, planning and evaluation, and facilities. The assessment is conducted by a certification team that includes representatives from NCDAAS and the local Area Agency on Aging.

Participation in the SCOPE evaluation is voluntary, but completing the process signals that a center meets key benchmarks for quality and sustainability. It also strengthens the center’s ability to secure funding and serve as a trusted resource for aging populations.

“The Senior Center is a vital part of our community,” said County Manager Sharon Griffin. “This recognition speaks to the effort the staff puts in every day to meet the needs of older adults, including meals and wellness programs, social activities, and outreach. It’s work that matters, and we’re proud to see it acknowledged at the state level. This continued recognition ensures the center can pursue innovative new programs and maintain its high standard of care for years to come.”

The Carteret County Senior Center offers a range of recreational, educational, social, and health-related programs for adults 50 and older. To learn more, visit https://www.carteretcountync.gov/168/Senior-Services.

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CARTERET COUNTY, N.C. (May 7, 2025) – The Carteret County Sheriff's Office is alerting residents to an ongoing phone scam where individuals are falsely identifying themselves as law enforcement officers to extort money. This type of scam has been reported throughout the region and nationwide.

According to the Sheriff's Office, the callers typically claim to be law enforcement and falsely inform victims they have an outstanding warrant for issues such as missed court appearances, failure to report for jury duty, or unpaid fines. The scammers then threaten immediate arrest unless payment is made.

These deceptive callers often use the names of actual deputies or police officers and may manipulate their caller ID to appear as if the call is originating from a local law enforcement agency, a tactic known as "spoofing." Federal authorities have also indicated that scammers may attempt to email victims fraudulent law enforcement credentials to build trust.

Sheriff Asa Buck emphasized that these callers use intimidation tactics, demanding immediate payment and threatening arrest for non-compliance. They may request payment by various methods, including cash, credit cards, gift cards, payment applications, or even cryptocurrency. Sheriff Asa Buck stressed that legitimate law enforcement agencies in North Carolina, including the Carteret County Sheriff's Office, will never contact individuals by phone to demand money for missing jury duty or court dates.

It is important to understand our courts do not issue arrest warrants for missing jury duty. If a citizen fails to appear for jury duty, the court may issue a "show cause order" requiring them to appear in court to explain their absence. However, they will not be arrested or ordered to pay money.

"The simplest way to avoid becoming a victim of these scams is to hang up the phone immediately," stated Buck. "Do not let your guard down or be intimidated into providing personal or financial information. Real deputies will not call and threaten you with arrest, so if you receive such a call, simply hang up."

The Sheriff's Office urges anyone who believes they may have been a victim of this type of scam to immediately notify their local law enforcement agency. Citizens can contact the Carteret County Communication Center at 252-726-1911 and request to speak with a police officer in their town or a deputy sheriff.

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CARTERET COUNTY, N.C. (April 14, 2025) – More than 50 community members packed the Beaufort Train Depot on Saturday for a public forum addressing the impact of fentanyl in Carteret County. Families who have lost loved ones to the opioid crisis shared their stories, while local leaders were recognized for their efforts to combat fentanyl trafficking and support victims.

The event, organized by the Fentanyl Victims Network of North Carolina, highlighted the dangers of illicit fentanyl—often hidden in counterfeit prescription pills such as Adderall, Xanax, and Oxycontin.

“Many victims had no idea they were taking a lethal substance,” said Barbara Walsh, executive director of the Fentanyl Victims Network of NC. “The only safe source for prescription medication is a licensed pharmacy.”

The Fentanyl Victims Network of North Carolina reports that fentanyl, a highly addictive synthetic opioid, has claimed 168 lives in Carteret County between 2013 and 2023 and nearly 19,000 statewide over the past decade. In response, Carteret County has emerged as a leader in the state, notably in pursuing death by distribution charges, alongside investigation and victim support.

Sheriff Asa Buck, District Attorney Scott Thomas, Assistant District Attorney Dave Spence, and Legal Assistant Michelle Gillikin, all from Prosecutorial District 4, were honored with the Save Lives Together Award for their collaborative work in holding traffickers accountable.

“Our team treats every fentanyl-related death as a potential homicide,” said Sheriff Buck. “We are committed to pursuing justice for victims and their families.”

District Attorney Scott Thomas emphasized the importance of a coordinated approach: “Prosecuting these cases requires diligence, expertise, and compassion. We will continue to work alongside law enforcement and health officials to protect our community.”

Brooke Barnhill, manager of the County’s Post Overdose Response Team (PORT), demonstrated how to use Narcan (naloxone) and outlined local recovery resources. Meanwhile, First Responder Therapy Dogs of Eastern North Carolina comforted grieving families.

Carteret County’s victim-centered approach sets a statewide standard, Walsh noted. “Here, families are treated with dignity—that’s not always the case elsewhere.”

Affected families seeking support and resources can find information at www.fentvic.org. For further questions or to connect with local support networks, please contact Barbara Walsh directly at barb@fentvic.org.

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CARTERET COUNTY, N.C. (January 28, 2025) – With property fraud schemes becoming increasingly sophisticated, Carteret County is encouraging residents to take advantage of a free service designed to protect their most valuable asset – their home.

The Recording Notification Service (RNS), offered by the Register of Deeds Office, alerts property owners whenever a document is recorded in their name. This proactive measure allows residents to monitor activity on their property records and flag suspicious recordings.

The RNS is simple to use and free of charge. Residents can sign up online at the Register of Deeds website. Once registered, property owners receive an email notification each time a document is recorded in their name. Notifications include key details such as the recording date, time, instrument number, and other identifying information, enabling homeowners to verify recordings and take action if needed.

“Fraudulent activity surrounding property ownership is becoming increasingly sophisticated,” said Karen Hardesty, Carteret County Register of Deeds. “This service provides individuals with the necessary tools to actively monitor their property records and safeguard their investments.”

Key benefits of the service include the ability to register up to 10 personal or business names per email address and receive immediate alerts about any activity. This free and convenient service empowers property owners to stay vigilant and protect their investments from fraudulent activity.

While the RNS helps inform the public about potentially fraudulent activity, it does not give the Register of Deeds Office the authority to remove recorded documents. Its primary purpose is to notify property owners so they can act if necessary.

To sign up for the Recording Notification Service, visit carteretcountync.gov/162/Register-of-Deeds and click on “Recording Notification Service.”

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We’re honored to announce that Carteret County has been selected to participate in the highly competitive Our State, Our Homes (OSOH) program by Carolina Across 100 at UNC-Chapel Hill!

CARTERET COUNTY, NC (December 3, 2024) – Carteret County Government (CCG) has been awarded a prestigious financial upgrade by Fitch Ratings, moving from a ‘AA+’ to an ‘AAA’ Issuer Default Rating and General Obligation bond rating. This places Carteret County at the highest level of creditworthiness, reflecting strong fiscal management, economic stability, and financial resilience.

Fitch’s ‘AAA’ rating is awarded based on key strengths, including Carteret County’s high revenue potential, low debt burden, and diversified economy. The rating recognizes the county’s conservative budgeting practices, healthy reserves, and a record of sound financial stewardship, placing Carteret County among an elite group of local governments nationwide with the highest credit rating.

“The accomplishment highlights the Board of Commissioners’ dedication to fiscal responsibility and our commitment to ensuring Carteret County’s financial strength for the future,” said Chris Chadwick, Chairman of the Board of Commissioners.” As we prepare for our next board planning seminar, this rating reinforces the stable financial foundation that will guide our investments and initiatives.”

The ‘AAA’ rating not only signifies financial stability but allows the county to secure favorable rates when borrowing for future projects, potentially saving taxpayers’ money and bolstering the county’s ability to invest in important infrastructure and services.

County Manager Tommy Burns acknowledged the efforts of the team that contributed to this achievement, stating, “Reaching the top credit rating is a milestone made possible by years of thoughtful planning and collaboration. I want to especially recognize the exceptional leadership of Deputy County Manager and Finance Director Dee Meshaw, whose financial expertise and dedication were pivotal in this success.”

Residents can learn more about Carteret County’s budget process, meeting schedules, and initiatives by visiting www.carteretcountync.gov.

Detailed information on CCG’s AAA Fitch Rating is available at: https://www.fitchratings.com/research/us-public-finance/fitch-upgrades-carteret-county-nc-idr-gos-to-aaa-on-criteria-change-outlook-stable-26-11-2024. 

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