Specialized Units

K-9 Unit

The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office K-9 Unit, under the Patrol Division, supports patrol operations, investigations, and community safety. Each team consists of a trained deputy and a certified working dog who work together in detection, tracking, searches, apprehension, and obedience. Continuous training ensures every team is ready to respond when needed.

K-9 Athos

with Lt. Linwood Waters

K-9 Athos is a German Shepherd from the Czech Republic. After being selected for service, Athos and his handler completed a 14-week, 656-hour Basic Patrol and Narcotics Detection Course through Orchard Knoll K9 in Angier, NC. They trained in narcotics detection, tracking/trailing, article and building searches, apprehension, and obedience, and are certified through the International Police Work Dog Association. Off duty, Athos is affectionate, energetic, and loves playing fetch.

K-9 Mya

with Lt. Greg VanEssendelft

K-9 Mya is a Belgian Malinois imported from the Czech Republic and selected by the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office for her exceptional drive and working ability. Mya and her handler completed a rigorous 14-week (656-hour) Basic Patrol/Narcotics course at Orchard Knoll K-9 Training in Angier, North Carolina. During this intensive program, the unit was trained and certified in narcotics detection, tracking/trailing, article search, building search, apprehension, and obedience. Mya currently holds active certifications in narcotics detection, trailing, and article search through the International Police Work Dog Association (IPWDA). A high-energy partner with an intense ball drive, Mya’s favorite off-duty activity is a spirited game of fetch.

K-9 Rocky

with Cpl. Joshua Jones

K-9 Rocky is a Belgian Malinois imported from the Netherlands and selected for his outstanding working potential. Rocky and his handler completed a demanding 12-week (600-hour) Basic Patrol/Narcotics course at Orchard Knoll K-9 Training in Angier, North Carolina. The team received comprehensive training in tracking/trailing, narcotics detection, article searches, criminal apprehension, and obedience. Rocky is an energetic, highly driven K-9 who lives for his work. When off duty, he’s never far from his handler—eagerly playing fetch or working his charm for a few extra treats.

Sheriff's Response Team

The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office Sheriff’s Response Team (SRT), under the Special Operations Division, is a highly trained, specialized unit tasked with handling high-risk operations and critical incidents throughout Beaufort County. Comprised of deputies from across the Sheriff’s Office, SRT members undergo rigorous screening and tactical training to respond to situations that exceed the capabilities of standard patrol units.

The team is responsible for executing high-risk search and arrest warrants, resolving barricaded subject incidents, hostage rescues, active shooter responses, and crowd control during civil disturbances. SRT members are trained in advanced tactics, firearms proficiency, breaching techniques, and crisis negotiation, and work in close coordination with local, state, and federal agencies when necessary.

The primary mission of the Sheriff’s Response Team is to ensure public safety while minimizing risk to civilians, officers, and suspects. Whether responding to rapidly evolving threats or supporting planned operations, the SRT brings a disciplined, professional, and decisive approach to law enforcement in Beaufort County.

Through preparedness, precision, and teamwork, the SRT stands ready to protect and serve the community during its most critical moments.

Narcotics Unit

Overview & Mission

The Narcotics Unit operates under the Special Operations Division of the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office. It focuses on investigating controlled substance offenses and works closely with federal, state, and local agencies to enforce drug laws, monitor trends, and educate the public on drug recognition and prevention.
Its primary goals are to suppress the manufacturing, distribution, and use of illicit substances throughout Beaufort County, thereby promoting public safety and supporting community well-being.

Strategic Approach and Partnerships

This unit maintains multi-agency collaborations, coordinating efforts with entities like EMS, fire departments, and rescue services during high-risk operations or search and rescue missions.
Beyond law enforcement activity, it contributes to community outreach and education initiatives, including drug trend awareness and public health events.

Drone Operations

The Beaufort County Sheriff's Office Drone Operations Unit, under the Criminal Investigations Division, plays a vital role in supporting law enforcement and public safety operations throughout the county. Our highly trained drone team works closely with partner agencies—including local Fire Departments, Rescue Services, and EMS—to provide critical aerial support for high-risk investigations and search-and-rescue missions.

By deploying drones, we enable our personnel to operate in the most timely and safest manner possible, gathering real-time intelligence and situational awareness that help resolve incidents effectively while minimizing risk to officers and the public.

Key Capabilities

Fleet of 4 advanced drones equipped for both indoor and outdoor operations
Staffed by 8 FAA Part 107 certified remote pilots who meet rigorous federal standards

The Drone Operations Unit is committed to enhancing officer safety, improving response times, and delivering exceptional service to the residents of Beaufort County.

Marine Patrol Unit

The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office Marine Patrol Unit, under the Special Operations Division, plays a vital role in ensuring the safety and security of Beaufort County’s extensive waterways, including the Pamlico River, its tributaries, and coastal areas. The Marine Patrol Unit is tasked with patrolling over 120 sq. miles of navigable waters, supporting search and rescue operations, enforcing boating laws, and promoting safe recreational and commercial boating practices.

Deputies assigned to the Marine Patrol Unit are specially trained in maritime operations and emergency response. Working in close coordination with local, state, and federal agencies, the Marine Patrol Unit serves as a critical resource in addressing issues such as boating under the influence, overdue/missing boaters, and hurricane or flood-related emergencies.

The Marine Patrol Unit is dedicated to protecting lives, property, and the natural resources of Beaufort County’s waterways—providing a visible and proactive presence across one of the most scenic and heavily trafficked water regions in Eastern North Carolina.