The Line of Duty

She was sworn in on Wednesday, September 5, and joins the Sheriff's Department as an auxilliary officer until the next pay period, when she can be hired full time. 

Being a police officer has "definitely been in and out of my head since I was younger," said Deputy Mutro.  About a year ago, she decided to pursue a new career path.  She attended 16 weeks of Basic Law Enforcement Training in Elizabeth City, which was "intense, both physically and mentally," she said.

A week on a firing range improved her shooting and confidence with her service revolver. Courses also covered tactical situations, quick responses to threats, dealing with hazardous materials, and first aid. 

Sergeant Jason Daniels is pleased Mutro decided to join the Ocracoke Sheriff's Office.  "People who live here need to take these county jobs," said Daniels.  Officers that are planning to live for a long time in the community take the pledge to serve and protect seriously, he said. 

Mutro is the second female officer to work on Ocracoke.  Jenny Creech was the first.  "I thought it was going to be intimidating, working with all males."  Sheriff Mason and the rest of the department "really welcomed me and made me feel comfortable," she said. 

Mutro looks forward to the connections with the community that accompany her new role.  She moved to Ocracoke from Maryland ten years ago, and married a local man, Dale Mutro, seven years ago.  Dale admitted to Jaren that being married to a woman in uniform feels a little surreal. 

Base salary for Ocracoke deputies is about $32,000 per year, plus health insurance and benefits.  The county includes a housing allowance of $6,000 for officers who live on the island. 

The department saves money on uniforms.  Mutro inherited the shirts left behind by Corporal Matthew Sitterson. 

She joins Sergeant Daniels on patrol, and will continue working at the Village Craftsmen during days off duty.