GRANVILLE, N.C. – While the investigation continues, Sheriff Brindell Wilkins has been suspended.
- Granville County Sheriff Brindell Wilkins has been arrested and charged after investigators say he knew about threats against a former deputy and didn't tell anybody.
- Sheriff Wilkins has been suspended.
- Chief Deputy Sherwood Boyd will perform the sheriff duties.
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Wake County DA Lorrin Freeman, who was asked to step in by the Granville County DA, says that a 10-month investigation by the SBI and the FBI found that five years ago Wilkins found out that a deputy by the name of Joshua Freeman had a recording of him using racially offensive language.
Documentation shows that a third party made a threat to kill Freeman, and was encouraged by “key phrases” and counseling on how to get away with the murder by Wilkins.
Additionally, Wilkins did not report the threat, or inform Deputy Freeman that they had been made.
In a statement on September 23, County Attorney James C. Wrenn stated that he filed a petition for the removal of Sheriff Wilkins. Following the petition, a consent order was issued with the consent of Sheriff Wilkins, suspending him from his position and staying further action on the petition for removal pending the disposition of criminal charges.
Until the position is filled, Chief Deputy Sherwood Boyd will perform the duties of the sheriff.
Wake County District Attorney Lorrin Freeman is prosecuting the case. Granville County District Attorney Michael Waters stepped aside from the case due to a conflict of interest.
Wilkins is facing two felony charges for obstruction of justice. He is currently out on bond. He's set to go back to court next month.