WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. — Editor's note: The video featured is of the finalists answering community questions.
Assistant Police Chief William Penn, Jr. was announced Winston-Salem's new police chief by City Manager Lee Garrity Monday morning. He was selected among four finalists for the position.
Garrity said that he was looking for a strong leader who knows the community and one who can move the department forward, especially in addressing numerous vacancies.
"It's vital that our next police chief is able to inspire confidence within the department, to improve morale, and to make the Winston-Salem Police Department a place where dedicated officers come to build careers," Garrity said.
Penn currently commands the Investigative Services Bureau and has served as District 1 commander, and support services commander and has worked with the foot patrol, vice and narcotics, and crime prevention divisions. He has served with the police department for 25 years.
"Although I'm honored and excited about the opportunity to lead this department, the gravity of this position is not lost on me," Penn said. "As we all are reeling over the despicable video of the Tyre Nichols' killing, I want to assure the community that the actions depicted in the video do not represent the Winston-Salem Police Department and our values.