Orange Co. officer fired after 'concerning' social media posts

An Orange County officer was fired Monday following an investigation into social media posts he allegedly made, the department said. 

2025-09-22

Detention Officer Brian Edwards was placed on administrative leave on Sept. 20, when the department learned of "concerning social media posts" allegedly made by Edwards. The department did not say what the posts contained or referenced. 

The department said the investigation confirmed violations of both the Standards of Conduct and the Speech, Expression and Social Networking sections of the policy manual. 

“We must maintain the public trust as we go about our mission to protect, serve, and treat everyone with dignity and respect,” Orange County Sheriff Charles Blackwood said. 

Edwards told WRAL he respects the Sheriff's Office and disagrees with how the situation was handled.

"I respect the sheriff's office, but I disagree with how my situation was handled. I'm focused on moving forward and won't be commenting further at this time," Edwards said.