Jennifer Thompson, a 25-year veteran of the Cornelius Police Department, will become the town's first female chief of police.

Town Manager Andrew Grant announced Thompson's promotion from deputy chief, calling it recognition of her qualifications and experience. Thompson has held nearly every rank in the department since joining as a Basic Law Enforcement Training cadet in 2001 after graduating from Gardner-Webb University with a criminal justice degree. She served as a police officer, detective, sergeant, lieutenant, captain and deputy chief before her selection.

"Being named Chief of Police for the Town of Cornelius is an incredible honor, and one I do not take lightly," Thompson said, according to QC News. "I have spent the last 25 years growing alongside this agency and serving the people of Cornelius."

Thompson said she will lead the department with "great respect, humility and a deep sense of responsibility to the people we serve." Her stated priorities include supporting officers and investing in their well-being.

Grant said the historic nature of the appointment deserves recognition. Thompson will be the town's first female police chief, he said in a statement, adding that he looks forward to seeing her "raise the bar" for the agency.

Thompson's family has deep ties to law enforcement. Her husband, Eric, is a retired captain with the North Carolina State Highway Patrol. Their oldest son, Blake, is a trooper with the same agency. Their youngest son, Jace, died at 5 years old after a battle with pediatric brain cancer.

Thompson said Jace's life continues to shape her work, both professionally and personally.

The promotion follows outgoing Chief David Baucom's announcement that he will retire Dec. 31 after nearly 28 years with the department. Baucom joined the Cornelius Police Department on April 19, 1999, and was appointed chief in 2022. Under his leadership, the department expanded its K-9 unit, created a Crime Reduction Unit and established a Co-Responder Program pairing officers with mental health support, Cornelius Today reported.

Thompson is expected to take over when Baucom steps down. No swearing-in ceremony date has been announced.