SHERIFF'S OFFICE

The Pitt County Sheriff's Office is responsible for enforcing criminal and civil law County-wide, maintaining order in the courts, and operation of the County Jail. The Sheriff is a constitutional officer who is elected every four years. The Sheriff's Office maintains 24-hour per day patrol of the County.

North Carolina law requires that a permit be issued by the County Sheriff before any person may purchase or acquire a handgun. A handgun permit application may be obtained from the Sheriff's Office or at most firearms dealers in the County. The application must be completed in ink and signed by the applicant. One person, at least 21 years old, must sign a notarized statement attesting to the applicant's good moral character. After a background investigation, the permit is issued and is valid for a period of five (5) years. Most applications can be processed within one business day.