Ricky Robbins named Charlotte-Mecklenburg chief deputy

RICKY ROBBINS FOR SHERIFF

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Sgt. Ricky Robbins, who lost to incumbent Sheriff Garry McFadden in the March Democratic primary, has been hired as chief deputy by the sheriff's office.

Ricky Robbins, who lost the Democratic primary to incumbent Sheriff Garry McFadden, is now Mecklenburg County’s new chief deputy.

McFadden, who won the March primary with 34% of the vote, hired Robbins, a Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police sergeant who finished second with 31%. Robbins, who starts on April 1, will oversee the courts and field operations divisions. He has more than 40 years of law enforcement experience from his time with CMPD, where he worked in several capacities, including patrol, SWAT, crash investigations and homicide investigations.

“Mr. Robbins’ experience and vision align with our mission to promote safety, accountability and trust across Mecklenburg County,” McFadden said in a statement. “As chief deputy, he will play a key role in advancing our priorities and supporting the dedicated men and women of the Mecklenburg County Sheriff’s Office.”

Robbins’ addition to MCSO’s leadership tier comes comes amid a series of challenges at the department. A Superior Court judge in January tossed a petition urging McFadden’s removal but ruled it can be refiled if approved by district attorney Spencer Merriweather. McFadden was sued last year by a former business operations director amid allegations of retaliation for alerting him to remedy pay disparities between a Black woman employee who earned less than white employees with less seniority and experience.

Concerns about staff retention and inmate deaths by suicide as well as attempts have also brought scrutiny to the department.

“We are excited to welcome Mr. Robbins to our executive leadership team as our new chief deputy,” chief of staff Valerie Fields said. “His leadership, professionalism and commitment to collaboration will be invaluable as we continue strengthening our operations and service to the community.”

Said detention chief Celeste Youngblood: “We are proud to welcome Mr. Robbins as our new chief deputy. “Mr. Robbins brings a strong record of leadership, professionalism and dedication to public service. I am confident he will be a great addition to our agency as he continues to serve our community.”

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