FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. – The Cumberland County Board of Commissioners has unanimously appointed Major Johnathan Morgan as the new Sheriff to complete the unexpired term of Sheriff Ennis Wright. The appointment was made after the board considered nine qualified applicants during its August 11, 2025 meeting.

The Board expressed its sincere appreciation to Sheriff Wright for his years of dedicated service to Cumberland County, noting his retirement was effective on June 30, 2025. During his tenure, which began in 2017, Sheriff Wright was recognized for expanding community outreach, strengthening public trust, and his commitment to fairness and equity.

“Our primary goal throughout this process has been to ensure a smooth transition and continuity of operations within the Sheriff's Office,” said Board of Commissioners Chairman Kirk deViere. “The Board of Commissioners collectively felt that Major Morgan's experience and understanding of current operations and procedures make him uniquely positioned to maintain the high standards of public safety our citizens expect and deserve." DeViere also thanked all nine applicants who stepped forward, calling their willingness to serve a testament to the community's strength.

County Manager Clarence Grier added, “I look forward to continuing to work alongside Sheriff Morgan, just as I did with Sheriff Wright. I am excited for the collaboration ahead as we continue our mission to ensure the safety and well-being of our community.”

Sheriff Morgan will serve the remainder of the current term, which is set to run through December 2026. The application process was publicly opened on July 15, with a deadline of August 4, and required applicants to be at least 21 years old, a qualified Cumberland County voter, and have no recent felony convictions.

For more information about Cumberland County Government, you can visit their website, download the MyCCNCGov app, or follow CCNCGOV on social media.