Sheriff Ralph Kersey has dedicated 45 years of combined military and law‑enforcement service to the United States, the State of North Carolina, and the citizens of Scotland County. A lifelong resident of Scotland County, he leads the Sheriff’s Office with a focus on professionalism, community partnership, and public trust.

Born and raised in Scotland County, Sheriff Kersey is the son of William and Betty Kersey and a 1979 graduate of Scotland High School. He and his wife, Angie, have been happily married for more than thirty years and have three daughters: Amanda, Courtney, and Taylor.

• United States Marine Corps (1979–1983)   Achieved the rank of Sergeant and received an Honorable Discharge.
• North Carolina Highway Patrol (1987–2011)   Served in Gastonia, Raeford, Rockingham, and Laurinburg. Retired with 30 years of credited service. Recipient of the Order of the Long Leaf Pine, one of North Carolina’s highest honors.

Sworn in on December 22, 2014, Sheriff Kersey became the eleventh Sheriff of Scotland County. He was re‑elected in 2018 and 2022, reflecting strong community confidence in his leadership.

Under his direction, the Sheriff’s Office has implemented numerous innovative programs focused on:

• Community policing
• Corrections modernization
• Youth engagement
• Crime prevention
• Transparency and accountability

Sheriff Kersey has earned:

• Intermediate & Advanced Law Enforcement Certificates
• Field Training Officer Certification
• Accident Reconstructionist Certification
• Federal Motor Carrier Inspector Certification

He has completed specialized training in Crisis Management, Search & Seizure, Criminal Investigation, Anti‑Terrorism Awareness, Interview & Interrogation, Hazardous Materials, and more.

He is also a graduate of:

• North Carolina Sheriff’s Leadership Institute (2015)
• National Sheriff’s Leadership Institute (2016)

Sheriff Kersey is deeply committed to community policing, working hand‑in‑hand with citizens to identify problems, reduce fear of crime, and improve quality of life. He welcomes your thoughts, ideas, and feedback on how the Sheriff’s Office can continue to serve with excellence.