NEW SCOTLAND COUNTY SHERIFF FIRES EMPLOYEE

LAURINBURG -- Buddy Blalock announced his first moves as Scotland County's
interim sheriff after a swearing in ceremony on Monday. Blalock said he had
relieved Lee Hecht of his duties and had hired Billy Campbell as the
department's chief administrator of operations.

Blalock said Hecht's last day was Friday. He wouldn't comment further.
Campbell's first day was Monday, Blalock said.

Blalock, who is 59, replaces Wayne Bryant. Bryant announced his intention
to resign Oct. 1. The county commissioners named Blalock interim sheriff.

Blalock will complete Bryant's term, which ends next year. He has said he
will seek election.

Bryant caused controversy in 1999 by re-hiring Hecht eight years after he
pleaded guilty to throwing an explosive into the yard of suspected drug
dealer .

A judge sentenced Hecht to five years probation, during which he was not
allowed to work in law enforcement. Bryant brought Hecht back to the
department despite protests from elected officials and community leaders.

Bryant later agreed that Hecht would not serve as a sworn officer, but as
an office manager. Hecht could not be reached for comment on Monday.

Campbell is a former officer with the Hamlet and Laurinburg police
departments. Blalock said Campbell is a 30-year veteran of law enforcement.
He will be a major and will be Blalock's second in command. Blalock said
the department's other sworn officers were kept. He said he will make other
changes to enhance the department's drug task force and detective division.