Durham County Sheriff

Are anonymous complaints accepted?

A complaint may be accepted from an anonymous source, provided there is enough factual information to permit an investigation. Anonymous complaints are not recommended, because they are so difficult to investigate.

Are military personnel exempt from residency requirements?

Yes. However, the Sheriff's Office does require active duty personnel to present a copy of their PCS orders to North Carolina and proof of address (such as a utility bill) in Durham County when applying for a concealed handgun permit.

As a landlord, can I go ahead with the eviction after I have filed for the Writ of Possession?

No, only a Sheriff or his/her Deputies may serve a Writ of Possession for real Property. Upon receipt of the Writ of Possession for Real Property the Sheriff's Office will contact the landlord to schedule the date and time to serve the Writ and evict the tenant. The landlord or his agent will meet the deputy at the location in question. The landlord is responsible for supplying and changing the locks. The landlord is responsible for providing a means to gain entry into the premises so that a deputy can ensure that all occupants leave the premises to include removing any animals that may be inside at the time of the eviction.

As a landlord, can I go ahead with the eviction after I have filed for the Writ of Possession?

No, only a Sheriff or his/her Deputies may serve a Writ of Possession for real Property. Upon receipt of the Writ of Possession for Real Property the Sheriff's Office will contact the landlord to schedule the date and time to serve the Writ and evict the tenant. The landlord or his agent will meet the deputy at the location in question. The landlord is responsible for supplying and changing the locks. The landlord is responsible for providing a means to gain entry into the premises so that a deputy can ensure that all occupants leave the premises to include removing any animals that may be inside at the time of the eviction.

Can I send process via email or fax for the Sheriff to serve?

At this time, certain legal constraints and technological obstacles prevent the Sheriff from accepting fees and civil process by electronic transmission.

Do I have to go through security to enter the Courthouse?

Yes. All visitors to the courthouse must pass through security when entering the building. Visitors must remove all metal objects and belts prior to going through the metal detector.