Charlotte officials faced intense questioning before the House Select Committee on Oversight and Reform as lawmakers examined public safety, accountability, and leadership within the city’s criminal justice system. District Attorney Spencer Merriweather defended prosecutorial decisions amid concerns over violent crime. Sheriff Garry McFadden was repeatedly pressed on enforcement of Iryna’s Law, the low number of ICE detainers honored, and the use of grant funding. Lawmakers also questioned McFadden over controversial jail policies — including a music studio inside the jail — and more than 21 inmate deaths during his tenure. In a tense exchange, McFadden blamed ICE for recruitment challenges within his department, prompting further scrutiny of leadership, priorities, and management.

<p>Charlotte officials faced intense questioning before the House Select Committee on Oversight and Reform as lawmakers examined public safety, accountability, and leadership within the city&rsquo;s criminal justice system. District Attorney Spencer Merriweather defended prosecutorial decisions amid concerns over violent crime. Sheriff Garry McFadden was repeatedly pressed on enforcement of Iryna&rsquo;s Law, the low number of ICE detainers honored, and the use of grant funding. Lawmakers also questioned McFadden over controversial jail policies &mdash; including a music studio inside the jail &mdash; and more than 21 inmate deaths during his tenure. In a tense exchange, McFadden blamed ICE for recruitment challenges within his department, prompting further scrutiny of leadership, priorities, and management.</p>

The Carolina Journal News Hour on WBT focuses on state-wide news, politics, and business stories that impact the lives of the residents of Charlotte and all of North Carolina utilizing the exceptional resources of The Carolina Journal.

<p>The Carolina Journal News Hour on WBT focuses on state-wide news, politics, and business stories that impact the lives of the residents of Charlotte and all of North Carolina utilizing the exceptional resources of The Carolina Journal.</p>

The Carolina Journal News Hour on WBT

Sheriff McFadden Grilled by North Carolina General Assembly

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/78a347aa-3282-4ac5-837c-a72300032082/clips/caf40a46-aa74-42e6-9967-b3ed00b78c83/transcript