McFadden warns that sheriffs across North Carolina have to absorb the brunt of Iryna’s Law changes

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) — Mecklenburg County Sheriff Garry McFadden is calling for all sheriffs in North Carolina to be heard in regards to the passage of “Iryna’s Law.” 

McFadden said in a statement Thursday that the public safety bill raises expectations but provides no support to meet them, leaving local sheriffs to absorb the strain of potentially overcrowded jails. 

“Detention centers are not optimal treatment settings,” he said. “Consequently, many sheriffs across the state may need to expand or enhance their mental health services to effectively coordinate with local hospitals or manage patients in crisis.” 

Officially House Bill 307, the bill was created following the fatal stabbing of Iryna Zarutska Aug. 22 on a Charlotte Blue Line train. It passed trhough the General Assembly Sept. 23 and awaits a signature by Gov. Josh Stein. 

McFadden says it creates “unintended challenges” for law enforcement agencies, claiming it would create a spike in overtime costs, especially tied to increased hospital transports and extended holding times. 

“There have been too many individuals whose lives were tragically lost and who deserve the highest level of justice served,” he said.  

While the bill adds 15 more staff members for the District Attorney’s Office, opponents say lawmakers should focus on funding for additional judges. 

McFadden reiterates alignment with lawmakers regarding the necessity of what he calls long overdue policies to ensure that violent offenders are held in custody for appropriate durations.

“Public safety is not only about keeping dangerous individuals off the streets but ensuring that those who need treatment are not lost in the system,” said Sheriff McFadden. “Lawmakers have the opportunity to stand with all sheriffs and ensure we have the resources, staff. and programs to make our communities safer and healthier. These solutions are achievable if we work together. With the right policies in place, the Mecklenburg County Sheriff’s Office, along with the other 99 sheriff’s offices in North Carolina, can be leaders in balancing safety with compassion. Our office stands ready to do the work, but we need lawmakers to join us in this commitment.”