In 2000, Lt. Colonel Watson began her career with New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office as a sworn Deputy Sheriff. In September 2001, she was hired by The Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office as a full-time Patrol Deputy. In December 2002, she was promoted to the rank of Detective assigned to the Sex Crimes Unit. Lt. Col. Watson remained in the Detective Division until October 2008 when she was promoted to Corporal in the Uniform Patrol Division. While serving in the Uniform Patrol Division between 2008 and 2012, she was promoted through the ranks up to Captain. In 2012, she was assigned as the Captain over Uniform Patrol and the Criminal Investigative Unit. In 2015, she was assigned as the Captain over the Criminal Investigative Unit and Vice/Narcotics Unit. Watson was promoted to the rank of Major in 2016. Lt Colonel Watson is a graduate of the Department of Homeland Security Leadership Academy, class of 2018. Throughout her tenure as Major she served in every division within our agency with the exception of the Detention Center.

In March 2021, Sheriff Ingram promoted Watson to the position of Lieutenant Colonel. In June 2023, Sheriff Chism promoted Watson to the position of Chief Deputy. Watson is one of the most vital and dedicated members of our BCSO family. She currently oversees the day to day operations of the Sheriff Office in addition to supervising four Majors, the IT division, Civil and Warrant division, I.M.P.A.C.T. & Recruiting team, and the Volunteer program.