Cabarrus Today

City Manager Lloyd Payne has announced that Interim Chief of Police Jimmy Hughes has been selected to lead the Concord Police Department as the new Chief of Police. Hughes, who has been serving as the Interim Chief for the past several months, will assume his new role on Monday, January 29.

Payne expressed his excitement about the appointment, stating, "I am thrilled to welcome Jimmy as the next Police Chief for the city. He has excelled in his service to our community for more than 25 years, including in the role of Interim Chief over the last several months. His years of experience with our Police Department coupled with his expansive knowledge will greatly benefit the City and Team Concord."

Hughes has an impressive background in law enforcement, having joined the Concord Police Department in 1998 as a patrol officer. Throughout his career, he has held various positions with increasing leadership responsibilities. He has served in the Patrol Bureau, Special Investigations Division, and Criminal Investigations Division. Hughes is also an original SWAT team member and has served as SWAT Commander. In 2013, he was promoted to captain and served as the commander of Charlie Patrol District and the Office of Management & Planning. He was later promoted to Major and served as the Patrol Bureau Commander until his promotion to Deputy Chief of Police in 2019.

Expressing his gratitude for the opportunity, Hughes said, "I am deeply humbled and grateful for the trust and support of our community, City Council, and city management. It is truly an honor to be selected to serve as Concord's new Police Chief." He also highlighted the dedication and compassion of the men and women at the Concord Police Department, emphasizing their joint mission of maintaining community trust and ensuring public safety.

Throughout his career, Hughes has prioritized building relationships and partnerships that connect the community with the work of the police department. He is known for treating others with respect and has been actively involved in supporting his fellow law enforcement officers and the community. In recognition of his outstanding contributions, Hughes received the prestigious Robert J. Eury Memorial Award in 2020, which is Cabarrus County's highest honor for law enforcement. He has also received several other accolades, including the Concord Police Department's Meritorious Conduct Award, Officer of the Year in 2008, and the Chief's Superior Leadership Award.

Hughes holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Management/Finance from Pfeiffer University and a Master of Public Safety from the University of Virginia. He has also completed advanced training programs, including the Police Executive Research Forum - Senior Management Institute for Police and the FBI National Academy.

As he takes on the role of Chief of Police, Hughes will lead a team of over 200 sworn officers and 30 professional staff. He resides in Cabarrus County with his wife, Heather, and their five children.

With his extensive experience and commitment to community service, Jimmy Hughes is poised to make a significant impact as the new Chief of Police for the City of Concord.