The Town of Carrboro has announced Police Captain Chris Atack its new Police Chief, following the retirement of Walter Horton earlier this year.

“Chris has the right combination of experience and qualities that will make him a successful police chief,” said Town Manager David Andrews in a release. “We have chosen a leader who will continue to make positive progress toward community policing, equal justice, and continuous improvement going forward.”

Horton stepped down earlier in 2021 after a 27-year career in law enforcement. Atack was chosen from a field of 36 applicants, per the release.

“I am humbled, honored and excited with this opportunity,” said Atack. “The year 2020 was a challenge for a number of reasons and laid bare many of the persistent inequities in our country.  Our department has unique opportunities to address, respond, and adapt to these realities as we focus on community service, transparency, and solution-driven thinking.”

Atack joined the Carrboro Police Department in 1999 and is a graduate of the UNC School of Government Leadership Fellows Program. Additionally, Atack has taught Basic Law Enforcement Training since 2008 at local community colleges including Alamance, Central Carolina and currently at Durham Tech.

“I want to thank Chief Horton for his service to Carrboro,” Andrews said. “In addition to his qualities of leadership and integrity, he has a unique understanding of our community which has served us well for many years.”

Featured image via the Town of Carrboro

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