Press Release Update

On Tuesday, December 30, 2025, an employee of the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office reported seeing a social media post alleging they were involved in animal neglect.

Upon the employee self-reporting the allegations made against them, an investigation was initiated immediately, and the employee was placed on administrative leave pending the results of the investigation.

The incident allegedly occurred in Pitt County where the employee resides. Sheriff Scott Hammonds notified the jurisdictional authority, which was Pitt County Animal Control, and requested an investigation.

Pitt County Animal Control submitted their findings to the Pitt County District Attorney. At the request of the Pitt County District Attorney’s Office the findings were reviewed by Carteret County District Attorney’s Office. The Carteret County District Attorney’s Office concluded there was no evidence of wrongdoing.

Upon receiving the findings from the Carteret County District Attorney’s Office, the employee was returned to normal duties.