is truly unique in the criminal justice community. In the United States, he is usually an elected official responsible for the law enforcement, corrections, court security, transportation of prisoners and the service of civil and criminal processes in the county.

He is a ministerial officer with delegated executive authority to carry out his duties. His responsibilities may vary from state to state but, generally, he is an active participant in all three branches of the criminal justice system:

• Policing
• Jail / Corrections
• Court Duties

Originally there were three constitutionally established public officers of a law enforcement nature: coroner, township constable and sheriff. Of these three, only the office of sheriff remains as a constitutionally established public office. This means that the office cannot be abolished except by amendment to the Constitution, although the General Assembly may from time to time change the duties and responsibilities of the office. There are one hundred counties in this state and each county has a sheriff who is elected for a four-year term.

1. The Chief Law Enforcement Officer of Dare County.
2. Elected by the people to provide services to the citizens as required by the North Carolina Constitution, North Carolina General Statutes and Common Law.
3. The Executive officer of the Dare County Sheriff's Office.
4. Utilizes the full resources of the Sheriff's Office to provide maximum service.