Early Life
I was born on December 23, 1986, in Brunswick, Maine, to Navy veterans stationed at Naval Air Station Brunswick. Growing up in a military family meant moving often, and I spent much of my childhood living across the country in California, Indiana, Illinois, Texas, Virginia, and Alabama before ultimately settling in North Carolina, where I spent the majority of my life.
Living as a “military brat” shaped who I am today. Constantly adapting to new schools, new communities, and new people taught me the importance of communication, respect, and building relationships quickly. Those early experiences helped mold me into a people-oriented leader—someone comfortable working with individuals from all backgrounds and walks of life.
I graduated from Northside High School in Jacksonville, North Carolina, in 2005. After high school, I attended Louisburg College, where I was a student-athlete and a member of the baseball team. Competing at the collegiate level reinforced values that still guide me today: discipline, teamwork, accountability, and perseverance.
These early life experiences—growing up in a service-oriented household, adapting to constant change, and learning the value of teamwork—laid the foundation for my commitment to public service and leadership
Lessons Learned from a family of service
I was raised in a family where service wasn’t a career choice—it was a way of life. My father, mother, stepfather, stepmother, grandfather, and uncle all served in the United States military. My little brother currently serves in the United States military. Growing up surrounded by that level of commitment instilled values in me at an early age that continue to guide every decision I make.
From them, I learned discipline, respect, and accountability. I learned that leadership means putting the mission and the people first, not yourself. I learned the importance of structure, preparedness, and doing the right thing even when no one is watching. Service came with sacrifice, and I saw firsthand the long hours, deployments, and personal costs that come with wearing the uniform—but also the pride and responsibility that come with serving something bigger than yourself.
In addition, both of my brothers-in-law are graduates of the United States Military Academy at West Point and served as military aviators. I have known them since I was in middle school, and they have been instrumental influences in my life. Watching their commitment to excellence, leadership, and service further reinforced the values I was raised with and gave me additional firsthand insight into what disciplined, mission-focused leadership truly looks like.
Being raised in a military family taught me how to adapt, how to lead under pressure, and how to earn trust through action, not words. Those lessons shaped my work ethic, my approach to leadership, and my commitment to public safety. They are the foundation of why I chose a life of service and why I remain dedicated to protecting the community I call home.
Family
My roots in North Carolina run deep—not just professionally, but personally. I met the girl who would become my wife when I enrolled at Havelock Middle School in the sixth grade. What started as a childhood friendship grew over the years, and in 2010, she became my wife. She has been my constant source of strength, support, and perspective throughout my life and career.
Together, we are raising three wonderful, intelligent, and athletic children who are the center of our world. Our oldest daughter, Bailee, is 14, and our twins, Brynn and Paxton, are 8. They keep us grounded, motivated, and constantly reminded of why protecting our community matters. Our family also includes Rip, our four-year-old Yorkiepoo, who keeps the house lively and brings plenty of laughs along the way.
Family is at the heart of everything I do. It shapes my values, drives my commitment to public safety, and reinforces my belief that Wilson County should always be a safe place to live, work, and raise a family.
Academic Education
A strong foundation in education has been essential to my development as a leader in law enforcement and public service.
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Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice & Criminology
University of Mount Olive — Magna Cum Laude
Class of 2017 -
Wake Technical Community College (2007-2009)
Continuing Education in Criminal Justice Studies -
Louisburg College (2005-2007)
Student-Athlete, Baseball -
Northside High School, Jacksonville, North Carolina
Class of 2005
My academic background, combined with years of hands-on experience, reinforces my commitment to ethical leadership, accountability, and effective public safety practices.
Community Service & Engagement
Giving back to the community has always been a priority for me—both in and out of uniform. Shortly after joining the Wilson County Sheriff’s Office, I began volunteering one day each week during the spring semester to tutor students in reading at Vick Elementary School, using my lunch break to support children at a critical stage in their education.That experience reinforced my belief that early engagement and mentorship can change lives.
I have spent many years coaching and mentoring young people through youth athletics, helping instill discipline, teamwork, and confidence—lessons that extend far beyond the field.
My coaching experience includes baseball, football, soccer, basketball, and flag football, with a long-standing commitment to Wilson Parks & Recreation.
Youth Coaching & Mentorship
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Baseball Coach, Wilson Parks & Recreation (since 2013)
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Assistant Coach, 11U Wilson All-Star Baseball Team (2024)
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Head Coach, 12U Wilson All-Star Baseball Team (2025)
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Head Coach, 8U Wilson All-Star Baseball Team (2025)
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Coach, Upward Basketball at Peace Church (2024)
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Coach, Youth Flag Football, Wilson Parks and Recreation (since 2023)
My involvement in local schools reflects a deep commitment to education, parental engagement, and student success.
School & Youth Leadership
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Past President, Elm City Middle School PTO (2023-2025)
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Past Member, Wilson County Schools Parental Advisory Council
(Representative from Elm City Middle School) -
Vice President, Fike High School Athletic Booster Club
Family is central to our commitment to this community. Since 2022, my family and I have been proud Host Families for the Wilson Tobs summer collegiate baseball team. We have opened our home to six student-athletes—four from the University of Nebraska, one from the University of Akron, and one from Florida International University. What began as hosting players quickly turned into building lasting relationships, mentoring young men away from home, and welcoming them as part of our family during their season in Wilson.
I am also deeply committed to addressing substance abuse and recovery through collaboration, prevention, and education
Recovery, Prevention & Public Health
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Founding Board Member, Recovery Concepts Community Center (RC3)
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Designer of the RC3 organizational logo
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Past Board Member, Wilson County Substance Abuse Prevention Coalition
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Past Member, Wilson County Opioid Multi-Disciplinary Team (OMDT)
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First Law Enforcement Certified Recovery Coach in Wilson County (2017)
Community service is not something I view as separate from law enforcement—it is an essential part of it. Building trust, mentoring youth, supporting families, and addressing challenges before they become crises are key to creating a safer, stronger Wilson County.
