Faison turns law enforcement over to sheriff
By Turner Walston
Published in News on July 20, 2006 1:46 PM
FAISON -- Faison Town Commissioners have elected to transfer law enforcement jurisdiction to the Duplin County Sheriff's Office.
Following a public hearing Monday, Commissioner Jane Hollingsworth moved to contract with the sheriff's department for law enforcement protection. The motion passed, 4-1, with Pat Rouse voting against.
The recent retirement of Police Chief Danny Brock left Faison with one police officer.
At Monday's hearing, Elmer Flake explained that the current budget for the town's police department was $137,749, after a retirement adjustment for Brock. The sheriff's office proposed a net cost of $117,321 for one year, after a $60,160 credit after equipment and a vehicle are transferred to the town.
Capt. Timmy Jones of the Sheriff's Office said four deputies in shifts would provide a round-the-clock patrol of the town, and a detective would be assigned to Faison. Deputies would also establish a senior citizen call system in town, similar to one operated in Calypso.
More than 40 citizens crowded town hall for the hearing. Some attendees appreciated the tradition of the town's police department.
"This is more than about law enforcement, it's about the direction the town is going," said Moses King. "I think you lose some of the essence of your infrastructure if you dismantle your police department and farm it out."
Other residents valued the additional protection offered by the sheriff's office.
"I don't see how there's a contest," said Wayne Matthis. "They are just going to be changing uniforms."