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WILKESBORO POLICE DEPARTMENT
MISSION STATEMENT
The mission of the men and women of the Wilkesboro Police Department is to strive for the impartial enforcement of state and local laws to foster the peaceful environment of our citizens. We will establish community partnerships by providing proactive police services aimed at crime reduction and the protection of life and property. By ethical interactions with those we serve, we will garner the mutual respect that provides the cornerstone of trust our citizens deserve.
The Wilkesboro Police Department consists of 22 full-time officers, 3 reserve officers, and 2 full-time telecommunicators/administrative assistants and 3 reserve telecommunicators. There are 2 Divisions within the department, namely the Patrol Division and the Support Services Division. It is our goal to maintain contemporary and progressive levels of training and equipment to better serve our citizens.
PATROL DIVISION
The Patrol Division has 5 patrol teams to provide continuous, around-the-clock police services. In 2021, we answered 10,457 calls for service and made 307 arrests. We have a Crash Reconstruction Team that is specially trained for in-depth investigations of the most serious traffic crashes. We are the Wilkes County Coordinator for the NC Governor’s Highway Safety Program, and all patrol officers receive high levels of training in patrol functions. Our agency utilizes a Bicycle Patrol function, which allows our officers an alternative way to patrol areas such as Main Street, the Greenway, and the town’s parks. Captain Chris Handy supervises the Patrol Division.
SUPPORT SERVICES
The Support Services Division is responsible for investigating reported general crimes and controlled substance violations. Many other functions are carried out as well, namely evidence control, equipment management, our Crime Stoppers role, and crime prevention programs. Our agency has a Special Response Team (S.R.T.), this team is trained in various high-risk law enforcement functions, and they provide 24/7/365 coverage to respond to disasters or situations when extra manpower is needed quickly. We are fortunate to be able to provide our citizens with protection levels of the caliber that the SRT provides through constant training with modern technology and equipment. Our Records Clerk and Telecommunicators perform essential functions and are also part of Support Services. Captain Chris Ardner supervises the Support Services Division.
FEEDING THE COMMUNITY
Several times a year, members of the agency prepare meals for people within the community. Officers normally feed approximately sixty people. Our agency uses this outreach as a way of developing better community and police relations. This event is in conjunction with His Light Ministries.
OPERATION CHRISTMAS CHEER
Each year members of the Wilkesboro Police Department and Town Officials get together and build boxes of food to deliver. This event occurs the week before Christmas each year.
SPECIAL OLYMPICS OF NC
We are excited to support Special Olympics North Carolina each year with various fundraising activities that include our Torch Run and Golf Tournament at Oakwoods Country Club in June. To donate or purchase Special Olympics shirts and hats, contact Investigator Bradley Dancy.
NATIONAL NIGHT OUT
Participation in National Night Out (NNO) Events are designed to:
Heighten crime & drug awareness
Generate support for local anti-crime programs
Strengthen neighborhood spirit and police with community partnerships
Send a message to criminals letting them know that neighborhoods are organized & fighting back.