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Deputy accused of hitting estranged wife made 1st court appearance

Reported by Gavin Johnson - bio|email
Posted by Debra Worley - email

BRUNSWICK COUNTY, NC (WECT) - A New Hanover County sheriff's deputy, accused of assaulting a female, bonded out of jail Tuesday afternoon.

According to investigators, 28-year-old Nick Dillon attacked his estranged wife, Adrienne Dillon, at her home in the Willows subdivision in Leland.

They believe Dillon hit his wife in the face and ribs.  She was treated at the hospital for her injuries.

According to Brunswick County dispatch, a warrant was issued for the arrest of Dillon early Sunday morning. He was on the run for more than 24 hours before investigators took him into custody.

According to Dillon's attorney, Dillon didn't run away.  He said a New Hanover County Vice and Narcotics Unit crossed into Duplin County to arrest him before he could turn himself in.

Dillon made his first court appearance Tuesday in Brunswick County.  His next court date is scheduled for November 12th.

He was a special deputy with the New Hanover County Sheriff's Office assigned to the courthouse, but was dismissed from his duties following the off-duty assault.

“As soon as I was informed of this incident, Dillon’s employment was immediately terminated.  I will not tolerate this type of behavior," said Sheriff McMahon.

Leland Police Officer Sgt. John Keel says Dillon's behavior gives law enforcement officers a bad name.

"Because we are supposed to uphold the law and protect the public - when something like this happens it really gets us a bad name," said Keel. 

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