DPS Dispatch

April is Second Chance Month in North Carolina, a time to focus attention on the challenges facing the more than 20,000 people returning to their communities each year after completing their sentences in prison. 

Did you know that around 25 percent of North Carolinians have a criminal record?  That usually creates consequences that most people are not aware of. People leaving prison are starting over. They frequently need a place to live, a job and support to re-start their lives. In fact, about 95 percent of people in prison will eventually return to their communities.

The work of hazard mitigation is designed so that today’s investment will pay off in the event of a future threat; it’s playing the long game.

Juvenile court counselors from New Hanover County (District 5) helped organize and participated in a joint staff and youth day with the New Hanover County “Elements” team at the Coastal Horizons Center rope course.

The N.C. Department of Public Safety’s mission is to safeguard and preserve the lives and property of the people of the state through prevention, protection and preparation.

When a disaster strikes, such as a hurricane, tornado, flood event or whatever causes a large amount of destruction, many communities turn to the state and federal governments for assistance.

With winter weather in the forecast, now is the time to prepare.

When Trooper Colby Hall raised his hand and took his oath on Nov. 19, 2021, during the 154th Basic Highway Patrol School graduation, he had officially accomplished a goal he had made early in life.

The holiday season brings to the surface the things that matter most and it is important to take the steps to protect them. Emergency Management and law enforcement experts from the Department of Public Safety share some tips to help you and your family remain safe during the holidays.

Prisons’ first field ministers graduate from college, 

It’s always nice to be recognized for your hard work. Just ask the special agents at ALE who were pleased recently when their division was awarded the Agency of the Year Award by the National Liquor Law Enforcement Association.

Black Friday kicks off the holiday shopping season and has made a name for itself as the largest shopping day of the year. Many friends and family members shop together and plan for a day of scoring deals upon deals.

The North Carolina Correctional Association gathered for its 42nd year of intensive training on handling gangs in prison, building leadership skills, supporting colleagues and more.

After the remnants of Tropical Storm Fred dropped several inches of rain in Western North Carolina, record flooding occurred along the Pigeon River resulting in six fatalities.

The North Carolina Emergency Management Association (NCEMA) held its annual meeting recently and presented awards for 2020 and 2021. These awards included the Col. William A.