Carrboro Police Chief Chris Atack announced his retirement from the role Wednesday afternoon, ending his 28-year career with the department. He will officially step down on Oct. 1.

After moving to Carrboro from Greensboro in 1999, Atack joined the town’s police force under then-chief Carolyn Hutchison. He was eventually promoted to police captain, which he acted as for seven years. In Feb. 2021 he was appointed to the role of police chief, replacing then-chief Walter Horton. He was one of 36 applicants considered by the town.

“Throughout his career, Atack has emphasized the importance of balance in community policing—recognizing the role of law enforcement while also supporting and building relationships with the community,” the town’s release read. “After more than two decades serving Carrboro, Atack leaves the department with a career shaped by public service, community relationships, and a commitment to finding balance in the work of policing.”

Atack holds both a bachelor’s degree in economics from Guilford College and a master’s degree in justice administration from Methodist University. Additionally, he is a graduate of the UNC School of Government Leadership Fellows Program. He has taught Basic Law Enforcement Training (BLET) since 2008 at local community colleges including Alamance, Central Carolina and most recently at Durham Tech.

“Balance is the key to professional policing and finding balance requires experience, perspective, and meaningful and frequent interactions with the community,” he said of his role.

The town’s release said Atack will continue teaching BLET courses during his retirement. On the personal side, he plans to spend more time with his two children, travel, pursue nature photography and catch up on his reading. 

As of Sep. 16, the Town of Carrboro has not confirmed any details on the process for picking Atack’s successor.

 

Featured image via the Town of Carrboro.

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