The Dare County Sheriff's Office is proud to protect and serve its community, citizens and visitors. Since 1870, Dare County Deputies have been doing their part to help make our community on the Outer Banks, Roanoke Island and the mainland of Dare County a better place to live, work and visit. With a current staff of 147 Deputies and support personnel, the Dare County Sheriff's Office is a full-service law enforcement agency working within various divisions. We also run a great Summer Camp for our youth.

 

"Serving with Integrity, Honor and Commitment"

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Sheriff's Office News:

Press Release September 25, 2025

Post Date:09/25/2025 2:58 PM
  • Contact Chief Deputy Jeff Deringer
  • Email jsd@darenc.gov
  • Phone(252)475-5980

Banner image which reads Dare County Sheriff's Office Sheriff J.D. "Doug" Doughtie Press Release

Domestic Disturbance Leads to Felony Arrest

On September 21, 2025, at approximately 10 p.m., Deputies from the Dare County Sheriff's Office responded to a domestic disturbance in the 100 block of Etheridge Road, Manteo, Roanoke Island. Upon arrival, it was reported that Bessy Mejia-Varela had gotten into a verbal and physical altercation with an individual, resulting in her arrest. 

Bessy M. Mejia-Varela, F/48, from Roanoke Island, N.C., was charged with:

  • Felony Malicious Conduct by Prisoner

  • (M) Assaulting Government Official/Employee

  • (M) Simple Assault

  • (M) Domestic Violence

  • (M) Resisting, Delaying, or Obstructing a Public Officer

Ms. Mejia-Varela was held on a 48-hour hold before being issued a $55,000 secured bond.

The Manteo Police Department also assisted in the incident.

The Dare County Sheriff's Office remains committed to upholding public safety and encourages anyone with information about criminal activity to contact local law enforcement. 

For more information on press releases, please contact Chief Deputy Jeff Deringer at (252) 475-5980.

For tips, contact the Sheriff's Office or Dare County Communications Center at (252) 473-3444.

Mejia-Varela, Bessy
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