Kinston Police Department named 2025 NCPEA Law Enforcement Agency of the Year

Kinston Police Department named 2025 NCPEA Law Enforcement Agency of the Year

Wilmington, NC – On July 14, 2025 the North Carolina Police Executives Association (NCPEA) honored Kinston Police Department and Director R.E. “Chip” Hawley of the State Bureau of Investigation at its annual conference in Wilmington, NC on Tuesday, July 15, 2025.

The Kinston Police Department was selected as the Law Enforcement Agency of the Year for its innovative Cold Case Unit, established in 2024. The KPD Cold Case Unit was inspired by the successful closure of a nearly 40-year-old homicide case. The Unit leverages local community partnership with a forensic anthropologist, an investigative journalist, and local radio host. These dedicated volunteers organize and review unsolved homicides, collaborating closely with detectives to direct investigative efforts and reignite solvability. Their work demonstrates that subject-matter expertise, even outside the walls of traditional policing, can meaningfully support public safety.

“With only 62 sworn officers serving approximately 19,000 residents, the Kinston Police Department has implemented a program that rivals efforts found in much larger metropolitan agencies. Their approach is unique, cost-effective, collaborative, and most importantly, it is working” said NCPEA Immediate Past President James Avens (Chief of Police, Matthews, NC). “It reflects the willingness of a small agency to take calculated risks and depart from longstanding traditions in pursuit of justice” said Avens.

Director R.E. “Chip” Hawley of the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation is the winner among nominees for the Keith Bulla Police Executive of the Year Award. Fellow leaders have recognized Hawley for the impact he is making since being sworn in to his new role as Director less than 8 months ago. Director Hawley is heralded for establishing a new standard of service for agents, restructuring some of the organization in order to improve workflows and efficiencies, and his commitment to celebrating the outstanding work of the SBI through authorization of a greater social media presence. He has also focused on partner agency collaboration in an ongoing effort to combat fraud and crimes affecting citizens impacted by Hurricane Helene.

“Director Hawley is a true leader in law enforcement,” said Avens. “Not only is he a board member of this Association, but he is also the President of the North Carolina Association of Chiefs of Police and is involved in several governmental boards, including the State SERT Commission, the Governor's Advisory Council for Student Safety and Well-Being, and the North Carolina Criminal Justice Standards Commission. Despite the many responsibilities that Chip has taken on, he never loses sight of the needs of the staff. He is a worthy nominee for the Keith Bulla Police Executive of the Year Award.”

Public Notice: Notice of Public Hearing, Town of La Grange

Public Notice: Notice of Public Hearing, Town of La Grange

Obituary: Ester Almond

Obituary: Ester Almond