After 25 years of serving the Town of Chapel Hill, Police Chief Chris Blue announced he is retiring in December.

Blue said in a statement from the Town of Chapel Hill that announcing his retirement is bittersweet.

“It has truly been an honor to serve as a police officer in my hometown for all these years and I still love every minute of it,” said the police chief. “But, it is time for me to try other things and make space for the next leader of this outstanding organization. They will be taking over the most progressive and innovative law enforcement agency in this state and I’m excited to see what’s next for the incredible team at CHPD.”

Chapel Hill Police Chief Chris Blue. (Photo via the Town of Chapel Hill.)

Blue was appointed as Chief of Police in December 2010. He was previously sworn in as a patrol officer in November 1997.

During Blue’s tenure as police chief he led investigations into the shooting of three Muslim college students at Finley Forest Condominiums and the murder of Faith Hedgepeth where her suspected killer was arrested in September 2021.

Additionally, Blue led town staff in preparations for three UNC men’s basketball Final Four appearances and annual Halloween celebrations. He also expanded the Police Crisis Unit.

“I want to thank Chief Blue for his many years of dedicated service to the Town,” said Town Manager Maurice Jones in a release from the Town of Chapel Hill. “He and his staff have collaborated with the community, the town council and personnel from throughout our organization to make Chapel Hill a safe and welcoming community. His commitment to our town will be sorely missed.”

The Town of Chapel Hill said in a release they are developing a process to fill the position with opportunities for public input.

“That process will be announced soon, with the goal of having the new chief hired prior to Chief Blue’s retirement,” the town release said.

 

Featured Photo via Town of Chapel Hill

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