A Message From Sheriff Carter

I'm Sheriff Tracy Carter, and I want to talk to you about something that is very important to me:  Your safety…   A new year can bring new challenges, not only locally, but in our great State, Nation and World.

For those of you that know me personally, I’m not one to sit back and take it easy.  I was elected to serve and protect the citizens of Lee County and that’s where my focus is.  

In these uncertain times in our world today, we ALL must be prepared.  I’d like to believe that most of you are prepared…But are you?  Prepared for what you may ask. From natural disasters, such as ice storms, snow, tornadoes, hurricanes, long term power outages, etc. 

Do you have an emergency preparedness kit set aside with items suggested that you’ll need in the event of a nature disaster?  Here are just a few sites that offer guidance;

          *   https://www.ready.gov/kit
          *   https://emergency.cdc.gov/preparedness/kit/disasters/

Our enemies continue to threaten to attack us again on our homeland, so terrorism threats must be added to the list as well, and of course protecting ourselves and our loved ones from the criminal element. 

Most of you are aware that I’m a big advocate of the 2^nd Amendment. If you feel threatened in your home, you should be able to defend yourself and your love ones from that threat.   
 

With gun ownership comes responsibility. There are several private businesses in Lee County which can provide personal firearms and safety courses.  Public classes are normally posted on my Facebook page.  Topics range from Basic Handgun 101 & Concealed Carry to Corporate and Church security.  Consider taking a certified safety course in handling a firearm so you can defend yourself in the event you find yourself in a situation.  My Community Services Unit can be contacted if you have further questions or would like to see what training seminars are available. (My staff members do not teach Concealed Carry however can help you find local trainers that do if you cannot)

If you do own a firearm and have children in the home, please take precautions and secure them properly.  Here is the link to the NC Firearm Laws. (goo.gl/KecyuW)

In an emergency, activating 9-1-1 first is of the utmost importance!  This allows the first responders to get a jump start on the emergency.  I also realize that in some cases that is just not possible, until the threat is over.  Being properly trained in the use of a firearm or non-lethal weapon can mean the difference between life and death, or you becoming a victim. 

The enemy that threatens our homeland often attacks weak or what is referred to as “soft targets” and so does the criminal element.  I want to encourage the good law abiding citizens of Lee County to not give our enemies any soft targets if we can help it.
This is as easy as just using situational awareness when you’re out on your daily drive, shopping, stopping for gas, etc.  Just pay more attention to your surroundings. 
 

I also want to encourage everyone to not hesitate to call your local law enforcement if you see anything suspicious in your neighborhoods or if you feel you need us for anything else.  Activate the 9-1-1 system first…

"The Constitution of most of our states (and of the United States) assert that all power is inherent in the people; that they may exercise it by themselves; that it is their right and duty to be at all times armed."
Thomas Jefferson

"Today, we need a nation of Minutemen, citizens who are not only prepared to take arms, but citizens who regard the preservation of freedom as the basic purpose of their daily life and who are willing to consciously work and sacrifice for that freedom."
John F. Kennedy

Have a great and safe new year Lee County!  Thank you all for your continued support.

Sheriff Tracy L Carter