Dixon earns top public safety award for legislative leadership

The North Carolina Sheriffs’ Association (NCSA) recently recognized Rep. Jimmy Dixon as a 2025 Defender of Public Safety for his leadership during the 2025 legislative session, which advanced key policies to strengthen law enforcement and protect communities.

“Nothing is more important than public safety in this troubled world. I will continue my absolute support for all our law enforcement and first responders,” Dixon told Duplin Journal.

Dixon’s legislative district is served by Sheriff Stratton Stokes in Duplin County and Sheriff Larry Pierce in Wayne County.

According to NCSA, during a session marked by numerous public safety and law enforcement bills, Dixon worked closely with sheriffs and community leaders to champion legislation addressing fentanyl distribution, illegal firearms, and retirement protections for law enforcement officers.

Sheriff Ricky T. Buchanan, president of the NCSA, praised Dixon’s efforts, noting that he has been a steadfast partner in the legislature, advocating for policies that support sheriffs and enhance public safety.

“As a result, our sheriffs will see harsher punishments for criminals who poison our communities with fentanyl and for felons who illegally possess firearms. Additionally, thanks to legislators like Representative Dixon, law enforcement officers will no longer have to choose between continuing to serve their communities and losing a retirement benefit they have earned over their careers.”

Dixon expressed gratitude, saying he was “pleased to once again receive this recognition from the Sheriffs’ Association.”

The NCSA serves as the statewide voice for North Carolina’s 100 sheriffs, advocating for sheriffs, public safety, and citizens’ rights through education, training, and legislative initiatives. The 2026 session will begin in April.