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Sheriff: overall crime down 15% in Hertford; suggests cameras and license‑plate readers
Summary
Sheriff Shelby White told the council crime — including violent and property offenses — is down about 15% since the Sheriff's Department assumed full responsibility. He noted three 'shots fired' incidents since the takeover, positive resident feedback about foot patrols, and recommended placement of cameras and possible license‑plate readers in higher‑crime areas.
Sheriff Shelby White briefed the Town of Hertford Council on Jan. 9, saying overall crime — a measure the department reported includes violent crimes, larceny, motor‑vehicle theft and fraud/embezzlement — is down about 15% since the county sheriff’s department assumed full responsibility for law enforcement two‑and‑a‑half years ago.
White told council that some categories, notably larceny and recoveries of stolen property, have increased even as the overall number declined. He said residents in neighborhoods such as Wynn Fork and Stokes have responded positively to foot patrols. White noted there have been three 'shots fired' incidents in the department's tenure; he said investigators believe participants knew one another and that witnesses have been reluctant to cooperate.
As part of a proactive strategy, White said deputies sometimes 'saturate' areas after tips about planned criminal activity. He recommended the town consider installing cameras in higher‑crime areas and exploring license‑plate readers (LPRs) to support investigations and patrol work. The council did not vote on funding or policy for cameras or LPRs during the meeting.
Quote: "Crime (including violent and property crime) is down 15%." — Sheriff Shelby White
Next steps: sheriff's recommendations would require policy direction and likely funding if equipment is purchased; council discussion and budget decisions would be needed before any procurement.
