The Knoxville Police Department (KPD) celebrated a significant milestone in its ongoing mission to enhance leadership and operational effectiveness with the announcement of seven promotions within its ranks. Chief Paul Noel presided over a promotional ceremony on March 8, 2024, marking a pivotal moment for the department and its personnel.
Leading the list of promotions is David Powell, a dedicated member of the KPD since 1998, who has been elevated to the position of Assistant Chief. Powell’s extensive experience, notably as the Deputy Chief of the Management Services Bureau where he managed the department’s budget and oversaw several critical units, positions him as a key figure in the KPD’s future endeavors. As Assistant Chief, Powell steps into the role previously held by the recently-retired Mark Fortner, ready to spearhead the department’s strategic initiatives and contribute to its vision of becoming the premier law enforcement agency in the region.
Latest TN News
Chief Noel expressed his confidence in Powell’s capabilities, emphasizing his leadership in driving significant projects and changes within the department. “Chief Powell has led a lot of those efforts, and will continue to do so in his new position. I have no doubt he will thrive and help us accomplish our goal,” Noel stated.
In addition to Powell’s promotion, the KPD announced the elevation of Captain Brian Evans to Deputy Chief. A 26-year veteran of the KPD, Evans has demonstrated exceptional dedication and leadership, particularly in his roles within the Office of Professional Standards and as commander of the West District. He will now oversee the Field Operations Bureau, playing a crucial role in the department’s violence prevention and intervention strategies.
Lieutenant Chris McCarter is set to become Captain, joining the executive leadership team and bringing his extensive experience and attention to detail to the forefront of KPD operations. Furthermore, Sergeants Shawn Shreve and Donald Zerillo, along with Officers Stephen Henderson and Steve Taylor, have also been promoted, collectively bringing over 50 years of invaluable experience to their new positions.
The promotions, effective March 10, underscore the KPD’s commitment to leadership development and operational excellence. Chief Noel expressed pride in the promoted officers, looking forward to their contributions to the department’s mission. “They have earned these opportunities, and I look forward to watching them excel in their new roles,” Noel remarked, highlighting a bright future for the Knoxville Police Department under its newly appointed leaders.
Source: Read Original Release