PEACHTREE
‘National Night Out’
The second annual National Night Out police-community partnership event is scheduled from 5-8 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 5, in the rear parking lot of Tri-County Community College off U.S. 64 East Alternate.
The community event allows kids, and adults, to meet first responders. There is no admission fee.
“Together we are making communities safer,” organizer said. “Join us for refreshments, child safety education, K-9 events, emergency vehicles up close looks and great family fun.
“This event is for everyone please join us and get to know the individuals who work to keep you safe.”
BRYSON CITY
Ex-sheriff gets charged
Curtis Cochran, former Swain County sheriff, was indicted on a second-degree forcible rape charge by a grand jury on July 21.
State Bureau of Investigation agents arrested Cochran on July 22. He was released on a $50,000 secured bond.
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On June 27, Cochran was charged with one count of sexual battery, soliciting a prostitute and assault on a female, all misdemeanors, as well as felonious restraint. He was also charged with violations of the Cherokee Code; specifically, two counts of oppression in office and one count of abusive sexual contact.
Following his arrest, Senior Resident Superior Judge Tessa Sellers, acting on a petition filed by District Attorney Ashely Welch, suspended Cochran from his position as sheriff. Prior
to a hearing set for July
21 to permanently remove Cochran from office, Cochran notified the Swain County Board of Commissioners that he would retire July 1.
Cochran was elected in November 2006. He is scheduled to appear in Superior Court at the Swain County Courthouse at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 24.
RALEIGH
Probation and parole saluted
In recognition of the important public service provided by probation/parole officers, Gov. Josh
Stein proclaimed July 20-26 as Probation, Parole & Community Supervision Officers’ Week in North Carolina.
“Probation and parole officers are dedicated public servants who serve our state daily and keep our
communities safer,” Stein said in a release. “I appreciate their commitment not only this week, but every week for doing their part to make North Carolina safer and stronger.”
More than 2,000 officers supervise about 76,000 individuals in North Carolina who are serving probation, parole or post-release supervision. They also work with community agencies and re-entry partners to provide services and support to the formerly incarcerated.
Details: Visit dac.nc.gov/careers.
Compiled by Publisher David Brown. The Smoky Mountain News contributed to this report.