Greensboro names new police chief

The City of Greensboro has selected a new police chief. 

The city announced its appointment of Assistant Chief John Thompson to the role Thursday. He replaces former Chief Brian James, who stepped down in April after less than three years on the job.

Thompson began his career at the Asheboro Police Department in 1998. He joined the Greensboro Police Department five years later.

Since then, he’s worked in the department’s narcotics, research, and resource management divisions. He’s currently the Bureau Commander of the Patrol Division. 

In a statement, Thompson says he’s “prioritizing challenges, such as violent crime and police community relations” and also focusing on innovative approaches to recruitment and retention. 

The city’s latest report shows violent crime is down by 6% compared to last year. But this year’s number is still 13% higher than the city’s five-year average.