South Raleigh News

Attorney General Josh Stein presented the Dogwood award to Nash County Major Miste Strickland for her 28-year career with the Nash County Sheriff’s Office. Major Strickland, the first female major in the office's history, is retiring this week.

"The people of Nash County are better off for Major Strickland’s service and good work over more than a quarter of a century," stated Attorney General Josh Stein. He also emphasized the importance of Major Strickland's career as an example for other law enforcement officers to follow.

Nash County Sheriff Keith Stone expressed his gratitude for the recognition, saying, "Major Strickland has protected the citizens of Nash County for 28 years and served this community with extreme diligence, honor, and compassion." Sheriff Stone also mentioned his anticipation for Major Strickland's future endeavors.

Major Strickland's extensive career within the sheriff’s office included various roles such as narcotics, school resource officer, and member of the SBI’s task force on internet crimes against children. She is also a certified state law enforcement instructor.

The Attorney General’s Dogwood Awards aim to acknowledge individuals who contribute to the well-being of North Carolinians.

Amid a shortage of experienced law enforcement officers in North Carolina, Attorney General Stein has been advocating for initiatives to attract more individuals to the profession. One such proposal is the Criminal Justice Fellows program, which offers loan forgiveness for those pursuing a career in law enforcement in the state.

Applications for the program are open until April 30, 2024, and more information can be found at www.ncdoj.gov/cjfellows.