Monthly Newsletter: July, 2026
- Jul 2
- 4 min read
From Sheriff Hammonds
In June, our office stayed focused on keeping Beaufort County informed, prepared, and safe. We issued scam warnings, shared a severe weather alert, updated the public on an active investigation and a wanted fugitive, and followed through on a property-theft case, while also highlighting community support, staff appointments, a K-9 body armor donation, and outreach with local schools.
As we enter July, I encourage you to refresh yourself on the following safety tips for water activities and fireworks and to support your local community by enjoying this month's events.
Thank you for partnering with us to keep Beaufort County safe.
Looking Back at June
Public Safety Incidents
In June 2026, the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office newsroom focused on scam warnings, a weather alert for Tropical Storm Arthur, a multi-agency investigation, a wanted fugitive, and the resolution of a flower-and-shrubbery theft case. Together, those posts show the office spending the month alerting residents to scams and severe weather, asking for help on active cases, and following through on property-crime enforcement.
Community Engagement Stories
In June 2026, the Sheriff’s Office highlighted several community-facing efforts, including a donation of body armor for K-9 Rocky, the launch of the county school nutrition summer meal program, and a visit by Sheriff Hammonds to Northside High School. The office also announced several staff appointments, including a new deputy, telecommunicator, and detention officers, showing both recognition of community support and continued investment in public service.
Click here to learn more about these stories.
Looking Forward to July
July Safety Tips: Water Activities and Fireworks
This year is the 250th anniversary of the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4th, 1776! Celebrations are expected across the country in honor of this momentous milestone. If you plan to partake in holiday barbecues, pool parties, and fireworks displays, it’s important that you prioritize safety for you and your family. Law enforcement and first responders often receive higher-than-usual numbers of calls for service during major holidays, so Sheriff Scott Hammonds of Beaufort County offers some important reminders to help you avoid injury and stay safe during your Independence Day celebrations this year.
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Water Activity Safety: A tragic injury or drowning can occur in a matter of moments around a pool or one of North Carolina’s beautiful bodies of water. Always remember:
Never leave a child unattended near water – even for a moment.
Designate a responsible and sober adult as the “water-watcher” to keep an eye on the water.
Dress little ones in brightly colored swimsuits. Light colors, especially blue, are difficult to see from the surface if they fall in.
Children and adults who cannot swim should wear an appropriate life jacket. Water wings are not a sufficient flotation device.
Invest in swimming lessons to teach children basic water safety skills.
Fireworks Safety: You can also help to reduce the number of fireworks-related injuries and be sure to follow the law by following these basic fireworks safety tips:
Certain types of fireworks may be prohibited in the state or in your area. Research ahead of time to ensure you are following all laws and ordinances.
Wear eye protection while lighting fireworks.
Never allow children to light or handle fireworks of any kind, including sparklers.
Light fireworks one at a time.
Do not try to re-light fireworks that have not ignited fully. Soak them in water and dispose of them.
Keep fireworks a safe distance from people, structures, and flammable materials.
Never place any part of your body directly over a fireworks device while lighting the fuse.
Keep a bucket of water or a water hose nearby.
Soak all spent fireworks in water before disposal to avoid a trash fire. Hot embers may remain long after the sparks have stopped!
Knowing the risks associated with holiday celebrations is not to diminish your fun, but to encourage you and your family to be safe and avoid unnecessary injuries. Remember these tips before your Fourth of July fun begins. Sheriff Scott Hammonds hopes you and your families have a wonderful and safe Independence Day!
Upcoming Events
Show your support for our community by participating in the following events.
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How to Reach Us
Non-emergency (24hr): (252) 946‑7111
Website: www.beaufortcountysheriff.org
Crime Tips: www.p3tips.com
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