Durham Names Walter Tate Interim Police Chief as Leadership Transition Begins May 1

DURHAM, NC – A major leadership transition is underway in Durham’s Police Department as the city prepares for a new chapter following the retirement of its current chief. Stepping into the role during this pivotal moment is a veteran officer whose decades of service have shaped nearly every corner of the department.

Walter Tate Appointed Interim Police Chief

The City of Durham has appointed Deputy Chief Walter Tate as interim police chief, effective May 1, 2026.

His appointment coincides with the retirement of Police Chief Patrice Andrews, whose final day with the department is also May 1, marking the end of her 25-year career.

More Than Three Decades of Service

Tate brings over 30 years of law enforcement experience to the role, having joined the Durham Police Department in 1995.

He has served as deputy chief since August 2023 and previously held a wide range of leadership roles, including:

• Assistant Chief of the Investigations Bureau

• Major and captain assignments in district operations and investigations

• Supervisory roles in patrol, criminal investigations, and court liaison functions

City Leadership Praises Appointment

City Manager Bo Ferguson said Tate’s deep institutional knowledge and steady leadership made him the right choice during this transition period.

“Deputy Chief Tate has deep experience across every part of this department and a strong commitment to our community,” Ferguson said.

“His leadership, professionalism, and understanding of Durham’s needs make him well-suited to serve in this interim role.”

Education, Training, and Professional Leadership

Tate holds a Bachelor of Science in Behavioral and Social Sciences from North Carolina Central University and completed Basic Law Enforcement Training through the Durham Police Academy.

His advanced training includes:

• Senior Management Institute for Police

• FBI LEEDA Trilogy

• West Point Leadership Program

• FEMA command-level training

• Advanced instruction in coordinated incident response

He is also active in several national organizations, including:

• International Association of Chiefs of Police

• National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE)

• Police Executive Research Forum

Additionally, he serves on the Durham County Criminal Justice Advisory Committee.

Deep Community Engagement

Beyond his leadership roles, Tate has maintained a strong presence in the community through:

• Police Athletic League volunteer work

• Youth coaching and mentoring programs

• Victim advocacy efforts

• Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) outreach

• Mentorship through the D.L. Forbes Mentoring and Leadership Program

He has also spoken on racial equity issues at Duke University and was inducted into the Salvation Army Boys and Girls Club Emanuel Croslan Hall of Fame in 2017.

Search for Permanent Chief Underway

The City of Durham has already launched a national search for a permanent police chief and is encouraging residents to participate.

Community members can complete an online survey (available in English and Spanish through April 24) to share input on:

• Leadership priorities

• Community expectations

• The future direction of the department

Conclusion

As Durham navigates a significant leadership transition, Walter Tate’s appointment signals continuity, experience, and community connection. While the search for a permanent chief moves forward, city leaders are leaning on both trusted leadership and public input to shape the future of policing in Durham.