Town of Ramseur and Sheriff’s Office Reach Agreement for Law Enforcement Services

ASHEBORO, N.C. — The Randolph County Board of Commissioners has approved a request from the Randolph County Sheriff’s Office to create six new positions as part of an agreement to provide law enforcement services for the Town of Ramseur.

In August, the Ramseur Town Council voted to dissolve its police department after budget negotiations collapsed. At the time, Chief David Presley had requested an additional $200,000 for the department’s budget, including a 10% salary increase for the 2024-2025 fiscal year. The requested increase was in addition to the $655,899 already allocated. 

Following the budget impasse, several officers resigned, leaving only Presley, who announced his retirement, effective at the end of August. With no remaining full-time officers and the department dissolved, residents were left with uncertainty regarding future law enforcement plans.

After multiple rounds of negotiations between the town’s lawyers and Randolph County and the Sheriff’s Office, the County Commissioners unanimously approved an agreement on Nov. 4 to create five law enforcement positions dedicated exclusively to Ramseur. These positions include a sergeant and four patrol deputies.

The deputies will be responsible for patrolling, responding to calls, and conducting crime prevention activities within the town's limits.

Under the agreement, the Town of Ramseur will fully reimburse all associated costs, totaling $477,634 for the fiscal year ending in June. Chief Deputy Aundrea Azelton detailed the breakdown, noting that $333,970 is allocated for salaries and benefits, $54,048 for operational expenses, and $89,616 for a one-time start-up fee covering substation renovations, equipment, and uniforms.

A Sheriff’s Office substation, which will also house an administrative assistant, will serve as a base for Ramseur deputies. The Sheriff’s Office plans to operate the substation daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. once renovations are completed.