Mecklenburg County District Attorney Spencer Merriweather has just asked the State Bureau of Investigation to examine explosive allegations against Sheriff Garry McFadden, one day after a petition seeking the sheriff’s removal was filed in court.
The petition — submitted by state representative Carla Cunningham and four former sheriff’s office leaders — accuses McFadden of retaliation, misuse of resources, workplace abuse and threatening a legislator.
Under North Carolina law, removal petitions cannot proceed without approval from the district attorney or county attorney. Merriweather said his office typically reviews such claims only after a law enforcement investigation, prompting his formal request to the SBI. His letter outlines several potential criminal violations for investigators to examine, including extortion, bribery, campaign finance violations, and possible Hatch Act violations.
Cunningham’s filing alleges McFadden threatened her after she opposed legislation increasing cooperation with federal immigration authorities. Other claims describe “weaponizing” internal affairs and retaliating against whistleblowers and crime victims.
Merriweather emphasized that requesting an investigation does not confirm wrongdoing but said the allegations require independent review before any decision on advancing the petition. A judge will ultimately determine whether McFadden remains in office, setting up one of the most significant legal challenges to a Mecklenburg County official in years.
