Raleigh Names Three Finalists for Police Chief Ahead of Public Forum on Feb. 24

RALEIGH, NC – The City of Raleigh has narrowed its search for a new police chief to three finalists, City Manager Marchell Adams-David announced today (Feb. 24). The finalists—senior law enforcement leaders from Raleigh, Detroit, and Chicago—will take part in a public forum on February 24 before one is selected to lead the Raleigh Police Department following Chief Estella Patterson’s retirement on March 1.

Meet the Finalists

The three candidates vying for the position bring extensive experience in crime prevention, strategic policing, and public safety leadership:

• Rico Boyce – Deputy Chief of Administration, Raleigh Police Department
• Sonia Russell (pronounced so-NEE-ah) – Commander of Crime Control Strategies, Detroit Police Department
• Joshua Wallace – Commander of the Criminal Network Group, Chicago Police Department’s Bureau of Counterterrorism

Full biographies and photos of each finalist are available online.

Community Forum & Public Engagement

Residents will have an opportunity to meet and hear from the candidates at a public forum on Monday, February 24, 2025, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Fletcher Opera Theater in the Martin Marietta Center for Performing Arts.

Event Details:
Location: Fletcher Opera Theater, Martin Marietta Center for Performing Arts
Doors Open: 6:00 p.m.
Discussion Begins: 6:30 p.m.
Livestream: The event will be streamed live in its entirety

The discussion will be moderated by Adrienne Cole, President and CEO of the Greater Raleigh Chamber of Commerce, and Tiesha Mosley, Raleigh’s Director of Community Engagement. Community members can suggest questions for the candidates through an online survey ahead of the event.

What to Expect at the Event

• Security Screening: Attendees will be subject to security checks, including metal detectors.
• Bag Policy: Only small clutches or wallets are recommended. No bags larger than 12″ x 12″ x 10″ will be allowed.
• Parking: Paid parking is available in the lot across from the Performing Arts Center and in the Lenoir & South Street garage. Free parking is available at the city-owned garage at Cabarrus & Wilmington Streets.

As Raleigh prepares for a leadership transition in its police department, city officials encourage residents to attend or tune in online to help shape the future of public safety in the community.