Orange County sheriff talks Devin and Lyric's Law, juvenile crime

The teens were reported missing from their homes in September 2022 and discovered days later on in a rural part of the county along with a road.
The law, which goes into impact Friday, is House Bill 186 which is called after Lyric and Devin.
It eases limitations on how police recognize juveniles believed of major criminal offenses. Sheriffs such as Blackwood will still require to go to court to show their cases, but he'& #x 27; s enthusiastic this is something they can use in the future.
Blackwood, who is also president of the North Carolina Sheriff'& #x 27; s Association, said he worked closely with Reps. Danny Britt and Carson Smith, who used to be the constable in Pender County.
Robeson County Sheriff Burnis Wilkins likewise expressed frustration earlier this year in not being able to launch more details about a 16-year-old suspect who was desired for murder also.
"" I can'& #x 27; t give their daughter back," said Blackwood about Lyric. "I can'& #x 27; t provide their child back however I can definitely attempt and help other relative."".
Blackwood stated his former chief deputy'& #x 27; s child was pals with Lyric, too, so that made the case even more personal.
Asked about a motive, Blackwood stated Thursday that there was no burglary or plan; simply an event and an opportunity.