The Beaufort County Sheriff's Office has received multiple calls in reference to scam calls. Sheriff Hammonds would like to inform residents about scam phone calls claiming you have missed jury duty and must pay a fine immediately to avoid arrest. These callers often impersonate law enforcement officers, court officials, or government employees and may demand payment through gift cards, prepaid cards, cryptocurrency, or electronic payment apps. Remember: Legitimate court offi

An investigation is underway after skeletal remains were found in Washington this afternoon. Washington police were called around 2:00 pm today to possible human remains in the 900 block of Carolina Avenue. Once there, officers say they found skeletal remains in a stormwater drainage area near the roadway. The Washington Police Department believes the remains have been there for an extended period of time based on their condition. The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office, the NC

This week, the North Carolina Sheriffs’ Association hosted sheriffs and their personnel from all corners of the state for their annual Legislative Day at the General Assembly in Raleigh. Sheriff Scott Hammonds was proud to be able to attend the event. Commenting on the experience, Sheriff Hammonds said, “The decisions being made in Raleigh have a real impact on public safety in our counties, so I am grateful to be able to be the voice of the people of Beaufort County when it

From Sheriff Hammonds In May, the Sheriff’s Office stayed busy keeping the community informed and safe. Residents were warned about ongoing scams, and deputies investigated a structure fire that resulted in an arrest. The office also shared updates on two significant cases, including a joint investigation that led to an arrest and the apprehension of a fentanyl dealer in Aurora. The month also brought several opportunities to connect with the community. The Sheriff’s Office t

On May 13, 2026, Deputies with the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office Sheriff’s Response Team (SRT) executed a search warrant in the Aurora/Richlands area and arrested 46-year-old Donald Ramon Moore and 68-year-old Terry Darnell Riggins Sr. on multiple drug charges. This arrest and search warrant stemmed from Investigators from the Drug Unit conducting several controlled purchases of illegal drugs from Moore. Donald Ramon Moore was arrested and held in the Beaufort County Deten

UPDATE Repairs have been completed, and the bridge has been reopened. Previous Story The US HWY 17 Business Bridge is temporarily closed for repairs. Motorists should use an alternate route of US HWY 17 Bypass until further notice on the status of the Washington Bridge.

On May 11, 2026, Investigators with the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office Drug Unit, along with Detectives from the Washington Police Department, arrested 57-year-old Thaddeus Maurice Wallace and 72-year-old Clarence Earl Pierce of Washington, NC, on multiple drug charges. The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office and the Washington Police Department executed a search warrant at the residence of Wallace in Washington, NC. As a result of these enforcement actions, Investigators seiz

Sheriff Hammonds is proud to announce the appointment of a new employee of the Beaufort County Sheriff's Office. Heather Whaley was sworn in as a Telecommunicator. Congratulations, and welcome to the team!

Today, the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office joins our community and our nation in honoring the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving in the United States Armed Forces. Memorial Day is a time to pause, reflect, and remember those who gave their lives in defense of our freedom. Their courage, service, and sacrifice will never be forgotten. Sheriff Scott Hammonds and the men and women of the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office extend our deepest gratitud

Sheriff Hammonds and the staff of the Beaufort County Sheriff's Office would like to thank all the volunteers and supporters of the 30th Annual Crime Stoppers Golf Tournament. This program provides citizens with a safe and secure way to report criminal activity occurring in their neighborhoods through the P3Tips app. Tips that lead to an arrest also provide the tipsters with an opportunity to receive a cash reward. Remember, Crime Stoppers wants your information, not your nam

This week, Sheriff Scott Hammonds and the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office join communities across the nation in recognizing National Police Week and honoring the brave law enforcement officers who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. We pause to remember their courage, their service, and their commitment to protecting others. Their sacrifice will never be forgotten, and their legacy continues to inspire those who wear the badge today. To the families, friends, an

Yesterday, Sheriff Scott Hammonds and Lieutenant Salinas joined community members at Harvest Church for the National Day of Prayer. Additional staff members from the Beaufort County Sheriff's Office were also honored to attend this meaningful event alongside fellow citizens, faith leaders, and public servants. The National Day of Prayer serves as a time for communities to come together in unity, reflection, and support for our nation, first responders, military personnel, edu

Sheriff Scott Hammonds and the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office want to remind citizens to use caution when buying or selling items through Facebook Marketplace and other online platforms. Scammers often use fake profiles, misleading listings, unusual payment requests, or pressure tactics to take advantage of unsuspecting buyers and sellers. Before making a purchase, verify the seller, avoid sending money before seeing the item, and be cautious of deals that seem too good to

This week, Sheriff Scott Hammonds and the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office proudly recognize and honor our detention officers during National Correctional Officers Week. Detention officers play a vital role in the safety, security, and daily operations of our detention facility. Their professionalism, dedication, and commitment to service often go unseen, but their impact is felt every day. We thank our detention officers for their hard work, sacrifice, and continued service

The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office, along with multiple local, state, and federal partners, proudly completed Leg 6 of the 2026 Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics North Carolina. Law enforcement officers throughout North Carolina are carrying the Special Olympics Flame of Hope across the state throughout April and May. Traveling from six different points and spanning more than 2,000 miles, the relays will culminate on Friday, May 29, with the Circle of Honor an

The Beaufort County Sheriff's Office has received another report of a scam involving parking and toll violations. The scammers are attempting to get victims to scan a QR code to settle unpaid fees. We have included images in this post of text messages and photos we have received. Though this document looks official, it is yet another attempt to scam you out of your hard-earned money. Don't take the bait. If you believe you have been the victim of a scam, please report it to y

On April 2, 2026, at approximately 9:19 pm, Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office Deputies, along with Bunyan Fire Department, Pinetown Fire Department, Old Ford Fire Department, Chocowinity Fire Department, Bath Fire Department, and North Carolina Forestry Service, responded to the 500 block of Homeplace Road in Washington, NC, regarding a structure fire. The structure was fully engulfed, with fire spreading into the surrounding area. Fire personnel advised that the building was

In the May 2026 newsletter, Sheriff Scott Hammonds highlights how the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office responded to significant incidents in April while remaining actively engaged in our schools and community events. You will also find practical tips for boating and water safety as we approach the summer season, as well as information on upcoming community activities, including the Law Enforcement Torch Run, local festivals, and charitable fundraisers throughout Beaufort Coun

We were honored to participate in Career Day at Bath Elementary School. Our team enjoyed talking with students about what deputies do each day, the importance of public safety, and how they can prepare now for future careers. Thank you to the staff and students at Bath Elementary for allowing us to invest in Beaufort County’s future leaders.

On April 29, 2026, at approximately 2:30 am, deputies with the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office responded to the Rest Area in Chocowinity regarding a report of an individual being stabbed. Upon arrival, deputies learned the altercation began as a verbal argument between a boyfriend and girlfriend. The argument escalated to a physical altercation. During the altercation, the female retrieved a knife, and the two fought over it, resulting in the female sustaining a laceration t

Scammers are evolving. From fake delivery texts and bogus bank alerts to unpaid toll scams and law-enforcement impersonation calls, their goal is the same: steal your money or personal info. Read the latest tips to protect yourself and your family.

Pantego man arrested after stealing farm equipment.

A Chocowinity father is jailed without bond after deputies say he tried to kill his 4‑year‑old son, who is now safe with his mother.

Thank you to Unity Christian Academy for inviting us to your Community Helpers Touch a Truck Day! We had a blast showing students how our drone and K-9 teams help keep Beaufort County safe, answering questions, and spending time with the next generation of community leaders. We are grateful for every opportunity to partner with our local schools and fellow community helpers in service to our families.