WADESBORO, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) -- Wadesboro Police Department's Interim Police Chief Jason Eschert is retiring due to threats stemming from K-9 Blitz's death in the line of duty.
Eschert, who has held the position for three months, effectively retired on Friday, May 9, the department announced.
“While the timing was unexpected, we respect Eschert’s decision and thank him for his service to our community,” Town Manager Wiley Ross said. “We remain committed to the safety and well-being of our citizens as we navigate this period of transition.”
Eschert reportedly notified town officials of his retirement on Monday, May 5, due to violent threats directed at him, members of his department, and town officials. Officials said the threats were from the unfortunate incident on April 2, when K-9 officer Blitz was shot and killed.
No charges filed in Wadesboro K-9 Officer Blitz’s death, officers resign“This has been a difficult time for our department and our community, and we understand the emotions this has stirred,” Ross said. “As we process this tragedy and departure, our focus now turns to healing, supporting our officers and rebuilding trust within the community.”
Eschert is a 17-year veteran police officer with experience as a K-9 sergeant and trainer who came to the Wadesboro Police Department from the Oakboro Police Department.
During his three-month tenure, he boosted recruitment efforts to bring the department to full staff and led community policing efforts by engaging with adolescents in schools and throughout the community, the department said.
Of the course of his career, he's earned numerous Life Saving Awards for his work with K-9 Joker.
RELATED: Officer in Stanly County awarded Medal of Valor for disarming shooter, saving 2Former Wadesboro Police Chief Thedis Spencer will return to the department to serve as the interim chief on June 6. He retired in November 2023 after a 30-year career in law enforcement.
In the meantime, Sgt. Tameka Nolen will oversee administrative duties.
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