Roger Alford

Major Roger Alford is a career law‑enforcement officer with the Scotland County Sheriff’s Office and is the Democratic candidate for Scotland County Sheriff in the November 3, 2026 election. The sheriff’s office in North Carolina is the chief law‑enforcement agency for the county, responsible for patrol, criminal investigations, court security, civil process, and managing the county jail. As sheriff, Alford would oversee these divisions, set policy, and be the elected head of the office.

Alford was born and raised in Laurinburg, North Carolina, one of 14 children. He graduated from Scotland High School in 1990 and later earned his Basic Law Enforcement Training (BLET) certification from Sandhills Community College in 2010 ⁹. He met his wife, Linda McLean, in 2002; together they have four daughters, a son and two grandchildren, and remain active in the local community.

Alford began his career with the Scotland County Sheriff’s Office in 2008 ⁹. Over more than two decades he has risen through the ranks—serving as sergeant, detective, lieutenant, captain, and now major. He has held leadership positions in multiple divisions and currently manages day‑to‑day operations for the office ⁹. In addition to his duties, Alford has been recognized for his community engagement, such as delivering lunch to the 911 communications team during National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week ⁶.

In early 2024 Alford publicly announced his candidacy, forming a campaign committee and outlining a platform focused on community‑oriented policing. He emphasizes restoring public trust, guaranteeing anonymity for confidential tips, and strengthening relationships between deputies and residents ¹². He also proposes regular recognition of local women leaders, provision of athletic shoes for youth, and expanded support for programs like the Fellowship of Christian Athletes ¹²¹¹.

Alford’s personal resilience has been on display as he battles cancer. After a diagnosis, colleagues organized a chili‑cook‑off fundraiser to cover his medical and travel expenses, raising funds and offering emotional support while he undergoes chemotherapy ⁸¹⁰. The outpouring of community aid underscores his reputation as a well‑liked and dependable officer.

If elected, Alford says he will build on his long‑standing relationships with deputies and citizens to create a transparent, responsive sheriff’s office that prioritizes safety, community partnership, and support for vulnerable populations.

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