Press Releases

Correctional Sergeant Dies After Assault by Inmate

A sergeant at Bertie Correctional Institution has died following an assault by an inmate at approximately 5:30 Wednesday evening. Sergeant Meggan Lee Callahan, 29, died at approximately 6:20 p.m. despite life saving measures conducted by Bertie CI medical staff and local first responders.

Cooper Urges North Carolinians to Be Careful of Flooding

Following unusually heavy rains across the state, Governor Roy Cooper is urging North Carolinians to watch for flooding in low-lying areas, avoid flooded roads, and stay tuned to local weather forecasts.

MEDIA ADVISORY: Open House Scheduled to Unveil Lenoir Youth Development Center

Through an open house on Thursday, April 27, Secretary Erik A. Hooks of the Department of Public Safety, along with W. David Guice, Chief Deputy Secretary of Adult Correction and Juvenile Justice, will introduce elected officials and community leaders to the renovated Lenoir Youth Development Center in Kinston.

Department of Public Safety names new Director of Community Corrections

Secretary Erik A. Hooks of the Department of Public Safety today named Tracy Lee as the new Director of Community Corrections, effective May 1.

Governor Cooper Meets with Wayne County Leaders on Hurricane Matthew Recovery Progress

Governor Roy Cooper met with Wayne County leaders today to discuss efforts to help families and communities recover from Hurricane Matthew and to learn more about ongoing needs.

Department of Public Safety appoints new Director of Prisons

Secretary Erik A. Hooks of the Department of Public Safety today named Kenneth Lassiter as the new Director of Prisons, effective May 1.

Inmate dies in apparent suicide

 Inmate Adam Tipton died this morning at a Winston Salem hospital, several days after an apparent suicide attempt. Tipton was found unresponsive in his cell at Piedmont Correctional Institution in Salisbury at about 10 p.m. on April 13.

State Capitol Police K-9 Team Wins Top Dog Award in National Trials

Balu, a 2 ½-year-old German Shepherd, and his handler, State Capitol Police Officer Kevin Johnson, have worked and trained together for more than a year.

ALE Charges Nine for Underage Drinking, Drug Violations at Prom Party

Alcohol Law Enforcement agents charged nine under-aged youths with alcohol and drug violations at an April 9 prom party held at a private residence with no adult supervision.

Governor Cooper Meets with Robeson County Leaders to Track Hurricane Matthew Recovery Progress

Governor Roy Cooper today met with Robeson County leaders to urge progress in programs that help families and communities recover from Hurricane Matthew; he also toured several locations impacted by the storm.