Missing Person
The Union County Sheriff’s Office is asking for the public’s assistance in locating a missing 24-year-old black female from the Hembry Bridge area. Her name is Joy Demoss, and she has the mental capacity of a 5-year-old and may be confused or disoriented.
Joy is approximately 260 lbs with a shaved head that has gold coloring in her hair. She was last seen wearing a white tank-top style long shirt with blue shorts and white sandals.
Joy was last seen at approximately 4:30 PM at the 7-Eleven gas station at Idlewild Rd. and 485 after leaving her residence on foot and maybe heading toward the Mint Hill area. The family has provided a recent picture of Joy.
If you see Joy or have any information regarding her whereabouts, please contact local law enforcement immediately so she can be returned home safely.
Keeping Our Streets Safe One Arrest at a Time
Deputies at the Union County Sheriff’s Office have removed 142 individuals from our roadways in just 3 months. These individuals were under the influence of alcohol, illegal narcotics, or other impairing substances.
We remain dedicated to keeping our streets and highways safe for everyone.
When you think about driving under the influence, think again, it’s not just your life at stake, but the lives of others around you.
Registration is officially OPEN for the UCSO Foundation Charity Golf Tournament! Don’t wait until it’s too late to be part of an incredible day of golf, fun, and giving back to a great cause.
Secure your team’s spot today: /community/ucso-charity-golf-tournament-team-registration-form
We look forward to seeing you out on the course supporting the UCSO Foundation!
Deputy vs. Deer = Unexpected Outcome
It started as a beautiful day with just a little nip still in the air when our Marvin Contract Deputy received a call that could have been a crazy ride.
Dispatch received a report of a “possible rabid deer” chasing individuals. Deputy Breslin headed that way expecting a scene straight out of a wildlife documentary.
By the time he arrived, he was prepared for anything. A deer foaming at the mouth with teeth showing, a deer with pure anger in his eyes ready to strike at any moment, or maybe even the kind of deer that squares up with cars for no reason.
When deputies arrived, it was clear this deer had no plans of making a fuss with law enforcement.
Instead, the deer slowly walked over to him, looked around for a second, and raised its head waiting for scratches like a spoiled golden retriever. At that point, the entire investigation changed directions.
For the next few minutes, Deputy Breslin gave head scratches and spoke with the deer. In our opinion, this deer must have been transplanted from somewhere other than the South because deer around here usually run when people approach.
Our deer have seen too many “Bambi” situations to hang around and be petted.
Eventually the deer wandered back off into the woods safe, and sound and Deputy Breslin returned to service.
Union County Detectives Arrest Man After Kik CSAM Investigation
On May 11, 2026, the Union County Sheriff's Office Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force received a cyber tip indicating that an individual at a residence in Indian Trail had been uploading and distributing child sexual abuse material (CSAM) using the social media platform Kik.
A search warrant for the residence was obtained, and detectives, along with the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation, identified Alfred Kokoszczynski as the individual operating the account. Kokoszczynski was arrested and transported to the Union County Detention Center. He was charged with ten counts of Second-Degree Sexual Exploitation of a Minor.
He appeared before a judicial official who, due to the nature of the charges, ordered that he be held without bond. Kokoszczynski remains housed at the Detention Center.
May We Never Forget: Union County Honors Fallen Officers During 2026 Memorial Ceremony
Yesterday afternoon, the Union County Sheriff’s Office proudly hosted Union County’s 2026 Law Enforcement Memorial Ceremony in observance of National Police Week. National Police Week was established in 1962 when President John F. Kennedy signed a joint resolution of Congress into law to ensure law enforcement officers are recognized and honored annually for their dedicated service.
During the ceremony, attendees gathered to remember and honor the law enforcement officers throughout our county and nation who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty, while also expressing gratitude to the officers who continue to faithfully serve and protect our communities every day.
Representatives from all local law enforcement agency were present, and we sincerely appreciate everyone who attended and demonstrated their commitment to supporting our local law enforcement community.
Sheriff Cathey also extends his gratitude to the local law enforcement leaders and distinguished guests whose participation and dedication helped make the ceremony meaningful as we honored both active-duty officers and fallen heroes. Above all, Sheriff Cathey would like to express his heartfelt appreciation to the members of our community who continue to support, pray for, and stand beside our law enforcement professionals each and every day.
10-41: A UCSO Podcast is now available wherever you get your podcasts.
Go behind the badge and hear real stories from the men and women who serve our community every single day, along with the voices of the people they impact.
In our very first episode, we sit down with Sheriff Eddie Cathey to talk about leadership, legacy, and the vision that guides the Union County Sheriff’s Office.
Join us each week as we bring you powerful conversations, meaningful stories, and a closer look at the people who make a difference right here in Union County.
74 year old Wife Charged with Second Degree Murder
The Union County Sheriff’s Office was dispatched to 707 Winding Way in Monroe, North Carolina, in reference to a shots-fired call at approximately 2:26pm. The female caller, later identified as 74 year old Patty Griffin, claimed she had accidentally shot her husband, Dennis Griffin in the shoulder.
Deputies arrived on scene within minutes, secured the residence, and began life-saving measures alongside other first responders. While rendering aid, it became apparent that the male victim had sustained a gunshot wound to the chest, not the shoulder as initially reported.
During the investigation, detectives learned that Patty had been arguing with Dennis about past events. Investigators determined that she retrieved a .38-caliber handgun, pointed it at Dennis, and pulled the trigger.
After shooting her husband she then attempted to discard evidence before law enforcement could arrive. Due to the evidence and coordination with the Union County District Attorney’s Office Patty was arrested and transported to the Union County Detention Center.
Patty was charged with Second Degree Murder. She was seen by a Judicial Official who issued her a No Bond and she is currently still housed at the Union County Detention Center.
This is still an ongoing investigation.
This morning, deputies from the Union County Sheriff’s Office and officers from the Monroe Police Department came together for the Law Enforcement Torch Run, running side by side with Special Olympics athletes in support of a truly meaningful cause.
Together, we completed nearly five miles through the City of Monroe, raising awareness for Special Olympics North Carolina and the incredible athletes it serves. The energy, determination, and spirit shown by everyone involved made this event unforgettable.
We are grateful for the community members who came out to cheer us on along the route. Your support means more than you know and continues to inspire us to serve and give back.
It was an honor to run for our athletes and stand together for inclusion, support, and opportunity for all.
Traffic Alert:
Due to a rollover crash, Rocky River Rd is closed at Hwy 75. Rocky River Rd at Doster Rd will also be closed until further notice. Motorists are advised to use alternate routes and avoid the area while emergency crews work the scene.
In honor of Police Week, now is the perfect time to lace up your shoes and make a difference in our community.
Join us for the Deputy Dash and take advantage of a special offer. Use promo code 𝙋𝙊𝙇𝙄𝘾𝙀𝙒𝙀𝙀𝙆 and receive $10 off your registration now through May 16. This is your chance to be part of something bigger while saving on your entry.
The Deputy Dash is more than just a run. It is a tribute to the life and legacy of Sgt. Jeff Greene, a hero who gave everything in service to others. Every step you take helps honor his memory and supports a cause that continues to give back.
All proceeds from this event go directly to the UCSO Foundation, helping fund programs that impact our community in meaningful ways.
Sign up today and run with purpose.
/Race/NC/Monroe/UnionCountySheriffsOfficeUCSODeputyDash5KTrailRun
