Spark Spotlight First Responder: Captain Angie Tullis of Buncombe County

1. How long have you been an officer? 

I have been an officer for 25 years. 

2. What initially had you interested in pursuing a career in law enforcement? 

I always wanted to be involved in public service. My family has a long history in Buncombe County, and I feel a great sense of accomplishment in being able to give back to my community.  

3. What is most important to you? 

Naturally, public safety is of utmost importance. I also believe in working to support and enrich our neighborhoods. Citizens are better able to cultivate a thriving community when they are secure.

4. What is your favorite thing about what you do?

I very much enjoy investigations. From the start of my career, I wanted to become a detective, though I also proudly served 13 years on Patrol. There are many ways for law enforcement officers to aid crime victims. Each is vital to the overall outcome, but for me, criminal investigations are the most fulfilling.

5. What is the most rewarding aspect of your job? 

It is rewarding to be a small piece of the operation that brings justice to a victim or their family. It is equally as important to help a victim realize that there is life beyond trauma. I am in a unique position to be able to ensure that the person in need of support is connected with vital outside resources. Watching a person transform from a victim to a survivor is a very powerful thing.

6. How do you handle challenges that come up? 

Challenges are something we all face at some point in our lives. Every situation is different. I try to respond with logic and objectivity. I don't take things too personally. I also accept that as a law enforcement officer, I am often the one others look to for immediate, decisive action. It's important to be able to efficiently navigate through all of it.

7. What do you want Spark readers to know about you? 

I work with some of the very best people I have ever known. They show up each day fully prepared to serve their communities. They don't take their responsibilities lightly, and they understand the importance of their oath. I am so proud to serve alongside them.