ONLY ON 3: More people report issues with DV orders, shelter says it’s a ‘frequent’ problem

COLUMBUS COUNTY, NC (WWAY) — A director of a domestic violence shelter in Whiteville said a Brunswick County man’s issue with obtaining a domestic violence protective order is a frequent problem in the district.

Vickie Pait with Families First tells WWAY at least two people reported issues obtaining orders this week in Columbus County, part of the 13th District (Brunswick, Bladen and Columbus counties). The reaction comes after man told WWAY he could not get an order due to a week-long judge’s conference in Wrightsville Beach, and he was forced to drive to New Hanover County to get help. We learned magistrates are not allowed to sign off on these orders in the district.

“It’s very frustrating for victims when they come in because our hands are tied and there’s not really a whole lot we can do other than suggest that they consider taking out criminal charges,” said Pait.

A Brunswick County clerk told WWAY’s Alexa Block that magistrates can sign off on criminal warrants.

Pait went on to say she does not believe magistrates should have the ability to sign off on orders all the time, but it would be helpful when the judges are absent.