Raleigh, NC – The North Carolina Sheriffs’Association has recognized state House Majority Leader John Bell (R-Greene,Johnston, Wayne) as a 2019 Defender of Public Safety for his important work during the 2019 legislative session to protect public safety in North Carolina.

Rep. Bell dedicated time and effort during the session advocating for law enforcement issue important to the North Carolina Sheriffs’ Association, which impacts the office of sheriff, local communities and the state.

“It is an honor toonce again be recognized with this important award,” said Rep. Bell. “I am very proud to support and work closely with our law enforcement and sheriff’s departments.They don’t always receive the recognition and respect they deserve, but they can always count on me.”

Rep. Bell’s legislative district is served by Sheriff Lemmie Smith of Greene County,Sheriff Steve Bizzell of Johnston County and Sheriff Larry Pierce of Wayne County.

“Rep. Bell took a leadership role in advancing the legislative priorities of the North Carolina Sheriffs’ Association which represents all 100 sheriffs in the state,” said Sheriff John W. Ingram V,President of the Association. “As a result, our sheriffs are better equipped to protect the lives, liberties and property of North Carolina citizens.”

During the 2019 legislative session, the General Assembly considered hundreds of bills and enacted dozens of laws that had a direct impact on law enforcement and public safety in North Carolina

The mission of the North Carolina Sheriffs’ Association is to serve as the statewide voice to protect, promote, preserve, and enhance the Office of Sheriff in North Carolina through education, training, and legislative initiatives that increase public safety and protect the rights of the citizens of North Carolina.