05-03-2025
Monroe Police chief to retire after 32 years with department
MONROE, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) — Monroe's longtime police chief will soon call it a career, the city announced Tuesday.
Chief J. Bryan Gilliard, a Union County native, will retire effective May 1, after 32 years of service. He began his career with the Monroe PD in 1993 as a telecommunicator. He then served in various capacities, rising to the rank of captain in 2007, assistant chief in 2010, interim police chief in 2013, and finally chief in 2014.
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City officials say Gilliard has led the department through the following initiatives:
Advancing the use of law enforcement technology and community engagement to improve public safety
Opening of the Bobby G. Kilgore Law Enforcement Center in 2023
Earning national accreditation and re-accreditation(s) from the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies Incorporated (CALEA) since 2007
Advocated for improvements in officer protective equipment and a modernized vehicle fleet
'Serving this City has been the greatest honor of my life,' he said in a statement. 'I am incredibly grateful to the men and women of the Monroe Police Department I've had the pleasure of serving alongside, and I look forward to their continued success for years to come. I want to thank everyone who supported me and this department for their confidence, trust, and encouragement as we provide essential security and protection for all our residents and visitors. I appreciate the support of the citizens of Monroe and their dedication to making Monroe a special place.'
Gilliard earned his bachelor's degree from UNC Charlotte, his master's degree from Pfeiffer University, and the Municipal and County Administration course at UNC-Chapel Hill in 2016. He also graduated from the FBI National Academy in 2009 and completed the FBI Leadership Development Program in 2017.
'Chief Gilliard has selflessly served his department, his City, and his community with honor, courage, and dedication over the last 32 years,' said City Manager Mark Watson. 'We thank him for his service and wish him the best in his well-deserved retirement.'
Chief Gilliard has served on the Board of Directors for the North Carolina Chiefs of Police Association and the North Carolina FBI National Academy Association. He has served as a board member for United Way, American Red Cross, Alliance for Children, Monroe Rotary Club, and Hospice of Union County.
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