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Public Safety Alerts
Timely, concise information about conditions that may immediately affect the safety, travel, or daily activities of the residents of Beaufort County


Facebook Marketplace Fraud Alert
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
May 8


Parking / Toll Ticket SCAM Still Spreading
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
May 4


Fraud Alert: Current Scam Trends
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.
Apr 23


Deputies on Scene in Reference to Shots Fired
Sheriff Scott Hammonds reports that Deputies are currently on scene at a shots fired call in the area of Pamlico Plantation in Washington NC . An active investigation is underway. At this time, Sheriff Hammonds wants to reassure the community that there is no ongoing threat to the public. Residents are encouraged to remain aware of their surroundings and allow deputies the space needed to safely conduct their investigation. Additional updates will be provided as more informat
Apr 7


Parking/Speeding Ticket Scam
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. 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 your local law enforcement agency.
Apr 4


Statewide Ban on Open Burning in Effect Until Further Notice
Due to increased wildfire risk, the N.C. Forest Service has issued a ban on all open burning and has canceled all burning permits statewide effective 6 p.m. Saturday, March 28 until further notice.
Under North Carolina law, the ban prohibits all open burning in the affected counties, regardless of whether a permit was previously issued . The issuance of any new permits has also been suspended until the ban is lifted. Anyone violating the burn ban faces a $100 fine plus $183
Mar 28


Scam Alert: Pastor-in-Jail & Jury Duty
Sheriff Hammonds would like to make the public aware of several scams that are currently affecting Beaufort County residents. The Beaufort County Sheriff's Office received a report of a scam where a person claiming to be a lawyer told a resident her local church pastor was involved in a crash that injured a pregnant woman and was in jail. The suspect requested $4,500 in cash to get the pastor out of jail and cover the woman's medical expenses. The suspect requested the victim
Mar 24


Severe Weather AM Update 3-16-2026
March 16, 2026 at 08:55 Here is the latest update from the US National Weather Service Newport/Morehead City NC The threat for severe thunderstorms continues today, March 16. This has the potential to be a significant severe weather event. In addition, we have expanded the wind advisory further west for gusty south winds of up to 45-50 mph this afternoon to early evening. Key Messages • Enhanced (Level 3 of 5) risk of severe thunderstorms, with the risk increasing to Moder
Mar 16
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