19-06-2025
Former Wilmington police chief returns as interim chief
The city of Wilmington has appointed an interim police chief while a nationwide search for the next permanent chief continues.
Former Wilmington Police Chief Ralph Evangelous will serve as interim chief of the Wilmington Police Department beginning June 30, according to a news release. Evangelous will replace Chief Donny Williams, who is set to retire on June 27.
Evangelous led the Wilmington Police Department from 2004 to 2020 and currently serves as an active reserve officer. He has more than 50 years of law enforcement experience.
'Chief Evangelous is a respected and experienced leader who understands both the department and the community it serves,' said Interim City Manager Thom Moton. 'He's well-positioned to provide steady guidance as we prepare to welcome Wilmington's next chief of police.'
Evangelous served as the interim police chief in Wrightsville Beach following his retirement in 2020.
Williams announced his retirement in January after more than 30 years of service. He is the city's first Black police chief, the first to have lived in Wilmington public housing and the first former cadet to become chief.
Daniel Sheehan covers the city of Wilmington and New Hanover County for the StarNews. Reach him at dsheehan@
This article originally appeared on Wilmington StarNews: Ralph Evangelous appointed as interim police chief in Wilmington, NC
