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November 12th, 2024 By Gene Galin
Pittsboro, NC – Sheriff Mike Roberson addressed a packed room at the 79 West Breakfast event on November 5, discussing the challenges and opportunities facing Chatham County as it experiences rapid growth. Drawing on his 30-plus years in public service, Roberson offered insights into his department’s initiatives, shared reflections on his personal journey, and underscored the importance of community involvement in public safety.
A Journey from Dirt Roads to Leadership
Sheriff Roberson’s opening remarks highlighted his deep connection to Chatham County. “I grew up on Jack Bennett Road when it was still a dirt road,” he said. A lifelong resident, Roberson shared anecdotes about his childhood, including being “locked out of the house and told to come back by dark.” He also spoke fondly of his wife, Annette, whom he met in the first grade, and their two children and a new grandchild, affectionately calling the arrival of grandchildren “worth having kids for.”
Roberson’s career began in 1990 at the Chapel Hill Police Department, where he served as a public safety officer. Over the years, he took on roles in community policing, juvenile justice, and investigations before joining the Chatham County Sheriff’s Office in 2002 under then-Sheriff Richard Webster. Reflecting on his rise to Sheriff, Roberson noted the challenges of turning around a struggling department, calling it “like turning a ship around in a creek.”
The Unique Role of a Sheriff in Modern Law Enforcement
Sheriff Roberson provided a brief civics lesson on the constitutional roots of the sheriff’s position. “The sheriff’s office is not mine; it belongs to the voters,” he explained, emphasizing that the role is enshrined in the North Carolina Constitution, predating county governments.
Roberson also discussed the significant personal liability that comes with the job, a responsibility he takes seriously. “I’m personally liable for the actions of my deputies, detention officers, and staff, even if I wasn’t there,” he said. This accountability underscores the need for the sheriff’s authority to hire and fire personnel.
With a department of 192 employees, including deputies, detention officers, and civilian staff, Roberson’s team covers a massive 707-square-mile county. “It’s about the size of Alamance and Orange Counties combined,” he noted, explaining that his office also manages responsibilities across Chatham County’s extensive lakes, rivers, and rural areas.
A Multifaceted Approach to Public Safety
1. Preventing Crime, Not Just Responding to It
Roberson stressed that prevention is the cornerstone of effective policing. “The best response time to a call is zero,” he said, meaning no call had to be made in the first place. His department employs strategies like business and residential checks, ensuring visible patrols deter criminal activity. Residents can also sign up for vacation house checks through the Sheriff’s Office app.
The department also offers educational programs, including crime prevention through environmental design, encouraging developers to incorporate lighting, clear sightlines, and defined spaces in their plans.
2. Managing a Modern Jail
Roberson detailed the complexities of running a detention facility, likening it to managing a small town. His jail has received 15 consecutive “no deficiencies” ratings during inspections, a testament to the professionalism of his staff. With over 1,100 inmates processed last year and an average stay of 10 days, the facility operates at a steady pace.
3. Balancing Law Enforcement with Community Outreach
In a bid to strengthen relationships, each Sheriff’s Office employee is required to complete 20 hours of community service annually. “We want you to see our deputies as people, not just enforcers,” Roberson said. Programs like “Shop with the Sheriff” allow deputies to assist children in need during the holiday season.
Addressing Current Challenges
Rising Calls and Limited Resources
Last year, the Sheriff’s Office responded to over 33,000 calls, averaging 90 per day. Roberson explained that his team is often forced to prioritize incidents, focusing on emergencies while postponing less urgent investigations. “Stacking calls is our reality,” he said, emphasizing the need for more resources as the county grows.
Youth Crime and Vehicle Break-Ins
Roberson raised concerns about a rising trend of vehicle break-ins, often committed by groups of juveniles. The solution, he suggested, is simple: “Lock your cars and take your keys with you.” He also emphasized the importance of early intervention in juvenile cases to prevent more severe crimes.
Animal Resources
Another pressing issue is the county’s animal population. The Sheriff’s Office brought in over 1,400 animals last year, outpacing the number of human inmates. With limited resources, the department relies on partnerships with rescue organizations to manage adoptions and transfers.
Building a Safer Chatham Together
Sheriff Roberson ended his remarks with a call for collaboration. “We’re in the people business,” he said, emphasizing that strong community ties are essential for effective law enforcement. He encouraged residents to use the office’s app, attend community events, and participate in safety programs.
Roberson also challenged local builders and developers to consider public safety in their designs, urging them to prioritize prevention through thoughtful planning.
Looking Ahead
As Chatham County continues to grow, Sheriff Roberson remains committed to balancing the demands of a larger population with the resources available. His focus on prevention, accountability, and community engagement sets a strong foundation for navigating the challenges ahead.
“Together,” he said, “we can ensure Chatham County remains a safe and welcoming place for everyone.”
Thanks to all our Private Office Tenants at 79°West
Millennium Planning Riitthink Digital Greener EHS
Company Marketing Solutions
EKI Consulting McDevitt Law Chatham EDC
Munson Law Firm Frank Land Design OCHAR
LSS Realty Rose Group, CPA BOLD Real Estate
Shanklin Wealth Dunning Custom Triangle Media
Planning Homes Partners
Eller Therapy The Results Company Great Neck Realty
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