Raeford, NC - The Hoke County Sheriff’s Office announced on June 25th, 2025, the office received a report regarding fraud activity.

The investigation started after the Hoke County Register of Deeds and the Hoke County Tax Office found irregularities in paperwork submitted for several properties. Because of safeguards in place, the questioned documents were not legally recorded, preventing the transfer of ownership.

During the investigation, the suspect was identified as Ryan Doby. Investigators found that Mr. Doby defrauded multiple victims through fraudulent activities involving the water department and attempted to file multiple quitclaim deeds on properties he did not own.

Detectives connected multiple related cases involving various properties and property owners across Hoke County to Mr. Doby. In November 2025, warrants were issued for fraud.

On February 8, 2026, Mr. Ryan Doby was arrested in Fayetteville by the Fayetteville Police Department. He was given a $101,000.00 secured bond and later taken to the Hoke County Detention Center. The investigation is ongoing, and more charges could be filed later. If you have any additional information about this case, please contact Detective Tyner at (910)875-5111.

During an investigation, the Hoke County Sheriff’s Office remains committed to ensuring that accurate and verified information is released to the public. Our goal is to provide transparency while avoiding the release of premature or misleading details that could interfere with the integrity of the investigation. The Sheriff’s Office appreciates the community’s patience and understanding as we continue to ensure that no misinformation is disseminated.