Special Operations

The Special Operations Division is the Sheriff’s Office's aggressive, intelligence-driven force targeting illegal narcotics, human trafficking, prostitution, and other high-threat criminal enterprises across Beaufort County’s cities, waterways, and rural areas.

Our mission is clear: disrupt and dismantle drug trafficking organizations, reduce the flow of deadly substances into our communities, and protect the most vulnerable from exploitation.

Core Responsibilities

• Investigating all controlled substance violations—from street-level sales to large-scale manufacturing and distribution

• Combating prostitution and human trafficking rings

• Conducting undercover operations, surveillance, buy-busts, and search warrant executions

• Delivering drug trend awareness and prevention education to schools, civic groups, and the public

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Multi-Agency Partnership
Special Operations works hand in hand with the FBI, DEA, SBI, ATF, U.S. Marshals, local police departments, and regional task forces to bring maximum resources and expertise to every case.

High-Risk & Specialized Response Teams

• Sheriff’s Response Team (SRT) – A highly trained tactical unit for high-risk warrants, barricaded suspects, and hostage rescues.

• Narcotics Unit – Suppresses the manufacturing, distribution, and use of illicit substances throughout Beaufort County.

• ​Marine Patrol – Works to ensure the safety and security of Beaufort County’s extensive waterways, including the Pamlico River, its tributaries, and coastal areas.

• School Resource Officers – Enforce laws within schools, enhance school safety, build positive relationships with students, and provide mentoring and education on topics like crime prevention and personal safety.

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From clandestine meth labs hidden in the countryside to fentanyl traffickers on our highways, and from missing persons in our swamps to armed standoffs, Special Operations brings the training, technology, and teamwork needed to resolve the toughest threats safely and decisively.