Chief Deputy Laurie Watson began her law enforcement career in 2000 with the New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office as a sworn Deputy Sheriff. In September 2001, she joined the Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office as a full-time Patrol Deputy. In December 2002, she was promoted to Detective and assigned to the Sex Crimes Unit.

She remained in the Detective Division until October 2008, when she was promoted to Corporal in the Uniform Patrol Division. Between 2008 and 2012, she advanced through the ranks, ultimately achieving the rank of Captain. In 2012, she was assigned as Captain over Uniform Patrol and the Criminal Investigative Unit. In 2015, she assumed command of the Criminal Investigative Unit and the Vice/Narcotics Unit.

Watson was promoted to Major in 2016, becoming the first female to serve in that rank within the agency and establishing herself as a pioneer in advancing women in law enforcement. She is a graduate of the Department of Homeland Security Leadership Academy, Class of 2018. During her tenure as Major, she served in every division within the agency except the Detention Center.

In March 2021, Sheriff Ingram promoted Watson to Lieutenant Colonel. In June 2023, Sheriff Chism promoted her to Chief Deputy.

Chief Deputy Watson is a highly dedicated and essential member of the Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office. She currently oversees the day-to-day operations of the agency, including Front Office Administration/Records, Finance, Information Technology, 911 Communications, Animal Protective Services, Accreditation, the I.M.P.A.C.T. and Recruiting Team, Training Division, Uniform & Equipment Division, Military LESO Program, Professional Standards Unit, Chaplain Unit, and the Volunteer Program.