The City of Monroe is proud to announce Assistant Police Chief William “Rhett” Bolen will succeed retiring Police Chief J. Bryan Gilliard as the Chief of Police effective April 11, 2025.
Bolen has served in the Assistant Police Chief role since April 2024, and has been with the Monroe Police Department since May 2004 serving as a Patrol Officer, Patrol Sergeant, Training and Recruitment Sergeant, Criminal Intervention Team Sergeant, Criminal Investigations Bureau Sergeant, Task Force Officer with the Homeland Security Gang Unit, Patrol Lieutenant, Patrol Captain, and Special Response Team Commander.
Bolen holds a Master of Public Safety degree from the University of Virginia, a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice from Western Carolina University, and an Advanced Law Enforcement Certificate. He is also a graduate of the FBI National Academy and the North Carolina Justice Academy, and currently serves as a General Instructor, Specialized Firearms Instructor, Rapid Deployment Instructor, Physical Fitness Instructor (North Carolina Justice Academy), and an Active Shooter Threat Instructor (Department of Homeland Security).
“Rhett Bolen has proven himself in service to our City. His impressive qualifications are a reflection of the quality of training, experience, and professionalism that is present within the Monroe Police Department. We’re always pleased when individuals have developed their skill sets to such a high level and are prepared to take on strategic leadership roles based on the merit of their qualifications,” said City Manager Mark Watson.
In his new role, Bolen will give direction and set the service priorities for the Monroe Police Department, which has more than 100 sworn officers and support personnel.
"I am honored to step into the role of Police Chief. Serving our officers, our community, and our City is a privilege, and I look forward to continuing our commitment to safety, service, and excellence,” said Rhett Bolen.
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The Monroe Police Department is recognized as an Advanced Law Enforcement Accredited agency by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, Inc. (CALEA) since 2007. The Monroe Police Department complies with over 400 highest applicable standards to achieve the gold standard accreditation in public safety.
The Monroe Police Department strives to improve the quality of life of those we serve. It is our primary goal to maintain a secure environment with equal protection under the law for all of our citizens. By developing a partnership with the community, we will provide dedicated service for all persons living, working, and visiting within the City of Monroe.