WILMINGTON, N.C. (WECT) – Gov. Josh Stein is calling on state lawmakers to address a staffing crisis in North Carolina’s correctional system, where more than 2,800 positions have been open for at least six months, according to state data.
As reported by WECT Investigates last week, the Department of Adult Correction has the most long-term vacancies in southeastern North Carolina of any state agency. The shortage includes nearly 200 openings across five southeastern counties, with Pender and Columbus counties each reporting more than 50 vacant positions, data shows.
Pender County alone is reporting 87 long-term corrections vacancies, generating $7.75 million in lapsed salaries. That’s public dollars that are spent elsewhere, or aren’t spent at all, since they’re going to salaries. In Columbus County, there are 58 long-term openings, which has added up to $2.8 million in lapsed salaries. In New Hanover County, 30 long-term vacancies within the department are reported, with $1.79 million in lapsed salaries…