In a concerning revelation, State Representative Carla Cunningham of North Carolina has accused Mecklenburg County Sheriff Garry McFadden of attempting to intimidate her regarding her stance on a pivotal immigration bill. The incident purportedly occurred in July 2025, ahead of a vote to override Governor Josh Stein's veto of House Bill 318, which mandates sheriffs' cooperation with federal immigration authorities.
Rep. Cunningham, a Democrat from Charlotte, recounted the troubling conversation with the Daily Caller News Foundation, stating, "One of the first things he said was that the citizens of Mecklenburg County would come at me. He didn’t want to see me get hurt; you live in my county." She interpreted these remarks as a direct threat linked to her impending vote on the legislation.
The sheriff's office has remained silent on the matter, with a spokesperson indicating, "The Sheriff is aware of the removal petition and allegations made; however, we are not releasing a statement at this time."
In a separate development, the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation has confirmed it is probing additional accusations against Sheriff McFadden. These include the alleged misuse of county employees and retaliation against former staff members.
Since assuming office in December 2018, Sheriff McFadden has been a controversial figure, repeatedly declining to comply with ICE detainer requests and releasing several criminal illegal aliens into the community. His policies were publicly denounced by ICE in August 2019. In a twist of events, McFadden expressed frustration in November 2025 over the lack of personal consultation from Customs and Border Protection concerning targeted enforcement operations in Charlotte.
House Bill 318, introduced by North Carolina Republicans in March 2025, sought to strengthen anti-sanctuary city policies by requiring sheriffs to detain illegal aliens for a minimum of 48 hours, thus providing federal authorities ample time to take custody.
The bill was passed by the Republican-led legislature but was vetoed by Governor Stein, who raised constitutional concerns. Rep. Cunningham was the sole Democrat to break ranks and support the veto override, ultimately assisting in the bill's enactment.
Following the contentious phone call with Sheriff McFadden, Rep. Cunningham sought legal counsel, informing her family, staff, and the General Assembly of the situation. Despite the alleged intimidation, she cast her vote to override the veto, stirring significant political repercussions. Governor Stein has since endorsed her primary opponent, Rodney Sadler, underscoring his commitment to "Democratic values."
Rep. Cunningham has defended her decision, citing her moderate stance and dedication to public safety over party loyalty. With her background in nursing, she emphasizes the importance of sound judgment and critical thinking.
The lawmaker, along with several former employees of the sheriff's office, has initiated a legal petition for Sheriff McFadden's removal from office. The complaint alleges a range of misconduct, including extortion, bribery, and retaliation, as reported by The Carolina Journal.
Among the petitioners is Marcia Crenshaw Hill, a former 13-year veteran of the sheriff's office, who highlighted unsafe working conditions as a result of McFadden's policies. Additional reports from former chief deputy Kevin Canty and ex-deputies Juan Delgado and Bryan Adams detail internal investigations and alleged retaliation targeting staff members.
The petition does not immediately oust Sheriff McFadden but triggers a judicial review process. A legislative oversight hearing is scheduled for January 22 to scrutinize the allegations and management issues within the sheriff's office. Meanwhile, Sheriff McFadden is campaigning for a third term in 2026.
Rep. Cunningham, facing two primary challengers this year, remains a vocal advocate for the sheriff's removal, citing the personal threat she received during their private conversation as a significant factor in her decision.
