Monroe appoints new Police Chief

The recent announcement by the City of Monroe reports the promotion of Assistant Police Chief William “Rhett” Bolen to the position of Police Chief. Bolen, who has been a part of the police department since May 2004 and has served as Assistant Chief since April 2024, will take over the responsibilities of the retiring Police Chief J. Bryan Gilliard on April 11, 2025.

Throughout his tenure with the Monroe Police, Bolen has held a variety of roles, showcasing his diverse experience within the department. These positions include serving as a Patrol Officer, Patrol Sergeant, Training and Recruitment Sergeant, Criminal Intervention Team Sergeant, Criminal Investigations Bureau Sergeant, Task Force Officer with the Homeland Security Gang Unit, Patrol Lieutenant, Patrol Captain, and Special Response Team Commander. This rich history within the department demonstrates Bolen’s comprehensive understanding of police operations across various areas of specialization.

The news release further highlights Bolen’s impressive academic background and professional certifications, including a Master of Public Safety degree from the University of Virginia, a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice from Western Carolina University, and an Advanced Law Enforcement Certificate. Moreover, he is a distinguished graduate of the FBI National Academy and the North Carolina Justice Academy. Bolen’s active roles as a General Instructor, Specialized Firearms Instructor, Rapid Deployment Instructor, Physical Fitness Instructor at the North Carolina Justice Academy, and an Active Shooter Threat Instructor with the Department of Homeland Security underscore his commitment to ongoing professional development within the law enforcement field.

The transition to Police Chief signifies a significant career milestone for Bolen, who has diligently grown within the ranks of the Monroe Police Department over the years. His leadership skills, honed through years of dedicated service and specialized training, position him well to take on the responsibilities of effectively overseeing the operations of the police force in Monroe.

As the new Police Chief, Bolen steps into a critical role within the community, responsible for ensuring the safety and security of the residents of Monroe. His background and expertise are invaluable assets that will contribute to the department’s mission of upholding law and order while fostering positive relationships with the community.

With his appointment as Police Chief, William “Rhett” Bolen brings a wealth of experience, knowledge, and a commitment to excellence, setting the stage for continued success in leading the Monroe Police Department into the future.