N.C. Gen. Stat. § 1-431: When sheriff liable as bail.

If, after arrest, the defendant escapes, or is rescued, or bail is not given or justified, or a deposit is not made instead thereof, the sheriff is himself liable as bail. But he may discharge himself from such liability by the giving and justification of bail at any time before process against the person of the defendant to enforce an order or judgment in the action. (C.C.P., s. 171; Code, s. 313; Rev., s. 749; C.S., s. 789.)