CHARLOTTE, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) — Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department announced Saturday its Police Chief Johnny Jennings plans to retire at the end of the year, concluding a 33-year career with the department.
Chief Jennings joined the department in May 1992 and was sworn in as the Chief of Police on July 1, 2020.
"Serving as the Chief of Police for the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department has truly been the greatest honor of my career," said CMPD Chief Johnny Jennings. "I am incredibly proud of what we've accomplished together – the significant reductions in crime, the strengthening of community trust, and the unwavering dedication I've witnessed from every member of this department. After over 33 years of service, I have decided it is time for me to pass the torch at the end of this year. Although I had intended to retire sooner, I felt compelled to guide our agency through some of its most challenging periods. I make this announcement with immense gratitude for the opportunity to serve this remarkable city and with full confidence in the men and women of the CMPD to continue protecting and serving our community with excellence."
The announcement comes as the city faces backlash over a reported six-figure settlement between Jennings and the Charlotte City Council.
According to reports, the settlement aimed to avoid a potential lawsuit from Jennings over threatening text messages he received from former Council Member Tariq Bokhari over the chief’s refusal to allow officers to wear “outer carrier protective vests.”
Since the settlement was brought to light, the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Fraternal Order of Police plan to move forward with a no-confidence vote against Jennings. The FOP responded to the deal, saying it was a misuse of public funds.
Earlier last week, NC State Auditor Dave Boliek announced that the department is launching an investigation into the settlement. In a letter written to Mayor Vi Lyles, Auditor Boliek says that the people of Charlotte— and his office —have a right to know the details. Boliek argued that no tax dollar should be free from public scrutiny, demanding the city hand over any information on public funds going toward the settlement.
Queen City News has reached out to the city for a statement regarding Jennings' announcement. We have not heard back.
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