Re-Elect Steve C. Hiatt for Sheriff “Promises Made, Promises Kept!”

For Immediate Release:

“Promises Made; Promises Kept!”

Surry County, NC – Sheriff Steve C. Hiatt proudly announces his candidacy for re-election in the March 2026 Primary, seeking a third term as Sheriff of Surry County. Since taking office in 2018, Sheriff Hiatt has led with a clear mission: to serve with integrity, accountability, and action, working hand-in-hand with deputies and detention staff to ensure safer communities across the county.

“Public safety starts with trust, presence, and a commitment to doing what’s right—even when it’s not easy,” said Hiatt. “I’ve worked to keep promises, not just make them—and I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished together.”

A Proven Record of Action

Under Sheriff Hiatt’s leadership, the Surry County Sheriff’s Office has implemented innovative strategies, expanded services, and increased transparency. Key accomplishments include:

• Expanded Patrol Coverage – Increased deputies per shift from 6 to 8 by restructuring command staff, improving visibility and response times across the county.

• Strengthened Detention Staffing – More than doubled detention officers per shift, creating safer conditions for staff and inmates.

• Opened a Modern Detention Center – Increased capacity from 125 to 362 beds, currently managing an average of 282 inmates monthly.

• Launched the Inmate Litter Program – A self-funded initiative that cleans up county roads while providing productive, structured work for inmates.

• Established Inmate Rehabilitation Programs – Partnered with Surry County’s Office of Substance Abuse to offer recovery support and job-readiness certifications.

• Provided Inmate Access to inteleTABLETs – In 2022, partnered with Paytel Communications to equip inmates with tablets featuring the Pathway to Achieve education program. These courses help inmates make better choices, build life skills, and support successful reintegration after release.

• Assumed Oversight of Pre-Trial Release Program – Previously managed by a state agency, this program now operates under the Sheriff’s Office, providing a smarter, more local approach to reducing jail overcrowding through structured alternatives for eligible individuals.

• Year-Round Drug Enforcement – The Narcotics and Street Crimes Unit (SCU) continues proactive, high-impact investigations throughout the year—not just during election seasons. Our investigators, including those assigned to the Homeland Security Task Force, work closely with surrounding law enforcement agencies to address drug crimes across county and state lines.

• Introduced Specialized Investigators – Added key roles, including an Overdose Death Investigator and a Major Crimes Detective, to support in-depth case resolution.

• Enhanced School Safety – Assigned School Resource Officers to every public school in Surry County and continued DARE education in 5th-grade classrooms. The department also supports private schools like Salem Christian Academy.

• Extended Public Access Hours – Expanded office hours every Tuesday evening to accommodate working citizens and make the Sheriff’s Office more accessible.

• Launched the Citizens Sheriff’s Academy – Developed a new program that invites local residents to learn about the inner workings of the Sheriff’s Office and how to partner effectively with law enforcement.

These initiatives have led to a decrease in violent crime, improvements in jail safety and management, and greater public confidence in local law enforcement.

In addition, Sheriff Hiatt and his team have resolved multiple long-standing cold cases, arresting suspects in serious crimes that had remained unsolved for years.

“Justice may take time—but it never expires,” Hiatt said. “Our team’s diligence and strong partnerships across jurisdictions are helping families find closure.”

Leadership Rooted in Faith and Community

Sheriff Hiatt and his wife, Rhonda, are active members of Highland Park Baptist Church in Mount Airy. Their faith plays a central role in their lives and in Sheriff Hiatt’s approach to service.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Sheriff Hiatt made the decision not to enforce restrictions on places of worship—standing firm in his belief that faith is essential and that citizens’ constitutional rights must be protected.

Looking Forward

“As we plan for the future, I remain committed to advancing public safety, empowering our officers, and staying connected to the people we serve,” said Hiatt. “This campaign isn’t just about keeping a job—it’s about keeping promises. I would be honored to continue serving Surry County with humility, faith, and strength.”