News Article
- Rep. Carla Cunningham
- Jan 5
- 1 min read
Updated: Jan 5
PRESS RELEASE
January 5, 2026
Rep. Carla Cunningham Joins Petition to Remove Mecklenburg County Sheriff
CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Representative Carla Cunningham is one of multiple parties in a petition that seeks to remove Mecklenburg County Sheriff Gary McFadden for attempted extortion and corruption, willful misconduct and maladministration in office, and willful and habitual refusal to perform the duties of his office.
Among the allegations described is a threat made to Rep. Cunningham in connection with her work as a legislator.
“No sheriff should ever suggest that a legislator’s safety depends on how she votes. I was afraid and the intimidation affected me,” said Cunningham. “This process exists for serious situations involving public trust, and the people of Mecklenburg County deserve transparency. Filing this complaint is part of rebuilding trust—trust in fair process, trust in our institutions, and trust that concerns will be handled through proper channels, such as dialogue and negotiation rather than silencing and bullying.”
The petition asks a judge to review sworn allegations from Cunningham and other individuals describing additional concerns about the operation of the sheriff’s office. Under state law, removal can occur only through a court process and only if the allegations are proven.
The petition is available here.
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