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"

Sheriff's Office News:

Press Release November 13, 2025

Post Date:11/13/2025 1:17 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

On November 08, 2025 at 6 p.m., Dare Central Communications received a call from an individual to report a missing animal. Deputies from the Dare County Sheriff's Office responded and promptly notified Dare County Animal Control. Animal Control and the Sheriff's Office conducted an investigation and it was determined that an individual, identified as Britton Shackelford, was involved in the incident and had discharged a firearm, resulting in the death of the animal. The District Attorney's Office was advised and consulted regarding the incident. Animal Control and the Sheriff's Office obtained a Warrant for Arrest from a Magistrate.

Britton T. Shackelford, M/57, of Wanchese, NC, was arrested and charged with:

Felony Cruelty to Animals
(M) Discharging of a Firearm within 300 yards of an Occupied Dwelling

Mr. Shackelford was arrested at the Dare County Sheriff's Office Detention Center and is in custody in lieu of a $7,000 secured bond. He was seen in court today for a first appearance hearing.

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.

Shackelford, Britton

PDF Version

Return to full list >>