Hoke County Court Process

If you've been arrested for Driving While Impaired (DWI) in Hoke County, North Carolina, understanding the local court procedures is crucial. The Hoke County Detention Center, located at 125 E. Edinborough Avenue in Raeford, is the central processing point for all DWI arrests in the county. This guide provides essential information about navigating the Hoke County legal system after a DWI arrest.

What to Do Immediately After a Hoke County DWI Arrest

Your immediate actions are critical. First, memorize or write down every detail you can remember about the stop. Roadside conditions are important, as stops in Rockfish or South Hoke may occur on unlit, sandy shoulders, potentially impacting field sobriety test results. Remember if you were read your Miranda Rights, and what the officer said.

If you refused a breath test, be aware that the officer likely filed a refusal affidavit with the DMV, leading to an immediate 6-month license revocation, followed by a 1-year revocation. If a blood warrant was obtained, understand where the blood draw occurred, whether it was at FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital-Hoke on Hwy 401 or by EMS at the jail.

Understanding Hoke County Law Enforcement Jurisdictions

Several agencies operate in Hoke County, each with specific patrol areas and processing protocols:

• Hoke County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO): The primary enforcement for unincorporated areas like Rockfish and Westgate. HCSO headquarters is at 429 East Central Avenue in Raeford. If arrested by the HCSO, expect transport to the Hoke County Detention Center on Edinborough Avenue for processing. Transport time from areas like Pinehill or South Hoke can be significant, affecting BAC calculations.

• Raeford Police Department (RPD): Enforces traffic laws within Raeford's municipal limits, especially along Highway 401 Business and Highway 211. RPD headquarters is at 315 N. Main Street, conveniently close to the Magistrate's Office and County Courthouse.

• North Carolina State Highway Patrol (NCSHP): Holds jurisdiction on all state highways, primarily US 401 (Fayetteville Road). NCSHP troopers are trained in advanced impaired driving detection (ARIDE/DRE). They use the Hoke County Detention Center for breath testing via the Intoximeter EC/IR II.

Knowing which agency made the arrest helps understand potential evidence collection and processing variations.

The Breathalyzer Test at the Hoke County Detention Center

The Intoximeter EC/IR II is located at the Hoke County Detention Center. The analyst will observe you for a mandatory 15-minute period before the test in the "Intox Room," which is under video surveillance. You have the right to a witness, but they must arrive within 30 minutes and be cleared for entry, which involves presenting ID at the magistrate’s window or jail lobby. This process can take up much of the 30-minute window, making it difficult for a witness to be present.

Hoke County Detention Center: Booking and Release

Upon arrival at the HCDC, you'll undergo a pat-down, and your property will be seized and cataloged. If your vehicle keys are seized, they're sealed in a property bag. A family member retrieving the car cannot access the keys unless you sign a property release form, which requires lobby staff assistance. DWI detainees are typically held in holding cells until sober.

Finding Information About an Inmate in Hoke County

To track an inmate's status, use the NC SAVAN / VineLink system via vinelink.vineapps.com or the VINELink mobile app. Be aware that there may be a 1-4 hour delay between booking and the record appearing online.

Court Appearances and the 19th Judicial District

Hoke County is part of the 19th Judicial District. Keep all court notices you receive and plan to attend all court dates. Being on time is key to avoiding further legal complications.

Vehicle Impoundment in Hoke County

If your vehicle was impounded, contact the arresting agency for information on its location and release procedures. Fees will apply. The keys to your vehicle will be held by the Hoke County Detention Center until the detainee signs a property release.

Contact Information

• Hoke County Detention Center (Inmate Information): 910-875-5113
• Hoke County Sheriff’s Office: 429 East Central Avenue, Raeford, NC
• Raeford Police Department: 315 N. Main Street, Raeford, NC
• Magistrate’s Office: 227 N. Main St, Raeford, NC

Immediately after release, contact the Hoke County Clerk of Court to confirm your next court date.