Question: How are sheriffs removed from office in North Carolina?
Answer: In North Carolina, sheriffs are removed by a superior court judge upon written charges and hearing for causes like neglect of duty, misconduct, corruption, extortion, felony conviction, or intoxication. The process starts with a petition filed by five qualified electors—with approval from the district attorney or county attorney, or by those officers themselves—leading to possible suspension, a prioritized hearing, and removal if the allegations are proven.
