08/31/2026
(CHARLOTTE, N.C.) – The Mecklenburg County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) is sharing a progress update regarding the reopening of Mecklenburg County Detention Center North (MCDCN) and the factors affecting the anticipated timeline for returning the facility to operation.
On August 19, 2026, the Mecklenburg County Manager’s Office brought a budgetary issue to MCSO’s attention regarding the reopening of MCDCN. North Carolina General Statute (NCGS) §159-8 generally prohibits the expenditure of public funds except in accordance with the applicable budget ordinance. The current budget ordinance covers the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2026 and ending June 30, 2027.
A budget amendment statement is scheduled to be presented by MCSO to the Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) on September 1, 2026. Until the amendment is approved, MCSO cannot expend funds designated for the reopening of MCDCN. If the BOCC approves the budget amendment, MCSO and its contractual partners will finalize the remaining hiring, onboarding and relocation arrangements.
According to NCGS §162-22, the Sheriff is responsible for the care and custody of the county jail. Mecklenburg County Detention Center Central’s capacity is 1,791. However, as of August 31, 2026, Mecklenburg County Detention Center Central’s average daily population is 2,222.
Since House Bill 307 went into effect on December 1, 2025, MCSO has observed a significant increase of approximately 577 residents, or 36%, in daily custody. The highest recorded average daily population occurred during fiscal year 2008, reaching 2,610 when MCSO managed three facilities.
“Our staffing selections have been completed, our personnel have been preparing the facility, and we continue to work toward having the North Detention Center ready for occupancy,” said Sheriff Garry L. McFadden. “The remaining issues are not simply operational decisions that the Sheriff’s Office can resolve independently. We must first have the necessary budget authority, then complete the required contractual staffing process and satisfy all state and federal inspection requirements.”
MCSO recognizes the significant pressure on the detention system, particularly concerning the overcrowding challenges that many facilities throughout North Carolina are currently experiencing.
“I want the public to understand that we are not sitting still,” Sheriff McFadden said. “MCSO is doing everything within its authority to prepare the North Detention Center for reopening. Once the necessary budget amendment is approved, staffing arrangements are finalized and the remaining inspections are completed, MCSO will be positioned to move forward to reopen the North Detention Center.”
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