Town of Navassa to discuss future of police department during upcoming meeting

NAVASSA, NC (WWAY) — It’s been more than a week since the last full-time member of the Navassa Police Department turned in their equipment, leaving the town without a police department.

Town administrator Landin Holland told WWAY the town was set to have Brunswick County Sheriff’s deputies take over patrolling the town in the interim.

However, according to a spokesperson for the Sheriff’s Office, the town has not yet requested that they fully take over law enforcement responsibilities, and the Sheriff’s Office has not seen a need to add any more resources to cover the town.

Brunswick County District Attorney Jon David has been involved with the situation as well and in a statement sent to WWAY, says:

“I have been in communication with town leadership and Sheriff Brian Chism during this time of transition. I am confident there is currently a plan in place to provide for continuity of service and protection of the public. Moving forward, the Town of Navassa needs to make a sincere commitment to either fully fund a strong department or partner with the Sheriff’s Office to establish a dedicated presence with a legally binding contract. The citizens of Navassa deserve the protection and peace of mind which comes from a sincere law enforcement presence.”

Navassa Mayor Eulis Willis said the town council will discuss the future of the town’s police department during a meeting on Thursday, May 15th.