Garner Police Department Deputy Chief Adams to Serve as Interim Chief Starting April 26
Garner Police Deputy Chief Chris Adams will serve as the Police Department’s interim chief starting April 26 until a permanent replacement for the department's top leadership position is named.
Deputy Chief Adams will move into his new temporary role following the retirement of Chief Lorie Smith, who closes out her law-enforcement career on April 25 after 30 years of creditable service—all with the Garner Police Department.
The appointment of Deputy Chief Adams to his new interim role “will allow a seamless leadership transition in the Police Department when Chief Smith retires,” Town Manager Jodi Miller said.
Deputy Chief Adams is a proven community-minded leader with 26 years of experience in policing, all of which are with the Garner Police Department. Before starting his law-enforcement career, Deputy Chief Adams served in the U.S. Marine Corps.
He has served as deputy chief in the Garner Police Department since July 2024. Prior to that, he served in various leadership roles for the department including support services captain, patrol lieutenant and several sergeant positions.
“I am honored to serve as interim chief of police for the Town of Garner,” Deputy Chief Adams said. “With 26 years of service with Garner PD, I remain deeply committed to our core values of commitment, integrity and professionalism. During this time of transition, my focus is on maintaining stability within the department, supporting our officers and continuing to build trust with the community we proudly serve. We look forward to working alongside our residents and partners to ensure Garner remains a safe and connected town for all.”
The Town of Garner is currently inviting residents’ input about the hire of the Police Department’s next permanent chief.
A short survey that takes about 3 minutes to complete is open until April 30 and can be found at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/GarnerCommunitySurvey
via Town of Garner
