North Carolina Department of Public Safety

At the helm of the North Carolina Department of Public Safety, a Secretary of Public Safety appointed by the governor leads this vast and diverse department. NCDPS is a complex organization consisting of numerous divisions and sections, each with its specific role in upholding public safety:

• Regulation of Alcoholic Beverage Sales: One of the department’s sections is responsible for regulating the sale of alcoholic beverages in the state, ensuring the enforcement of relevant laws and regulations to curb illegal sales and underage drinking.

• General Administrative Services: This division handles the day-to-day administrative tasks for the department, ensuring the smooth operation of all sections and their respective functions.

• Prisons and Juvenile Detention Administration: This crucial division manages the state’s prisons and juvenile detention facilities, striving to provide safe, secure, and humane environments for inmates and detainees while focusing on rehabilitation and reducing recidivism.
• The North Carolina National Guard: As part of the DPS, the North Carolina National Guard serves dual roles in both federal and state capacities. They are ready to protect and serve during natural disasters, emergencies, and national defense operations.
• The North Carolina State Highway Patrol: Abbreviated as NCSHP, this civilian police agency enforces traffic laws, assists the public, and maintains order on the state’s highways. It is known for its effective use of resources like helicopters, police tracking/drug-sniffing dogs, and ceremonial horses.

The inception of the North Carolina Department of Public Safety took place in 1977 under the name Department of Crime Control and Public Safety. The focus was primarily on enforcing law and order and ensuring public safety. In 2012, the department evolved to its present form when it merged with the North Carolina Department of Correction (NCDC) and the North Carolina Department of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention. The consolidation aimed to increase efficiency and coherence in the state’s approach to public safety and law enforcement.

The North Carolina State Highway Patrol, a vital part of NCDPS, was formed earlier in July 1929 in response to an increase in traffic accidents due to a rapidly growing number of vehicles. The highway patrol was tasked with enforcing motor vehicle laws and assisting the public, a mission it continues to fulfill to this day.

NCDPS plays a critical role in safeguarding the state’s citizens and maintaining societal harmony. It not only enforces law and order but also fosters positive relationships with the community. Community engagement programs and collaborative initiatives with local entities provide a strong platform for these relationships. The department’s commitment to public service is demonstrated by its prompt response to emergencies, be it a natural disaster or a security threat.

Additionally, NCDPS offers remote and flexible job opportunities, allowing professionals to contribute their skills in areas such as community development and civil engineering. This initiative not only broadens the talent pool but also helps to accommodate the diverse needs of its workforce, further enhancing its ability to serve the public effectively.

With the North Carolina National Guard under its purview, NCDPS ensures the state is always prepared to face any form of emergency or crisis situation. This strategic collaboration enhances the state’s capacity to respond effectively during crises, thus contributing to the overall safety and well-being of North Carolinians.

The North Carolina Department of Public Safety is headquartered in Raleigh, North Carolina.

Click here to view North Carolina accident reports.