Chapel Hill hires first woman police chief

It was announced that Assistant Chief Celisa Lehew will be Chapel Hill’s ninth police chief. Lehew will be the town's first woman police chief.

This concludes a nationwide search to replace retiring Police Chief Chris Blue.

“I am thrilled to be able to select one of our own to build on the lasting legacy of Chief Blue and the officers who have served with him,” said Maurice Jones, Chapel Hill's town manager. “Assistant Chief Lehew has been not only a leader in this organization but a leader in our community on many of the critical issues related to improving community safety for all. Through a rigorous process, which included a deep and talented pool of candidates, she presented us with a vision that continues the vital work that has made the Chapel Hill Police Department a leading organization locally, regionally and nationally.”

Lehew was sworn in as a patrol officer in 2004 and has served in leadership roles in each of the department’s divisions throughout her 18-year career in Chapel Hill.

“I am proud to lead the Guardians of the Hill in a community that is supportive of a progressive, forward-thinking department,” Lehew said. “We have a very strong foundation of community policing, and our officers are at the heart of that. As chief, I will support and invest in our team, so we can give our best to our community.”

Lehew said she takes pride in her many important relationships with community partners.

“I will continue to look inward to our officers and professional staff and outward to our community to help us make thoughtful decisions that will contribute to the health and well-being of everyone in our community,” Lehew said.