Town of Smithfield names new police chief

SMITHFIELD — Mayor Andy Moore, the Smithfield Town Council and Town Manager Michael Scott are pleased to announce the hiring of Pete Hedrick as Smithfield’s new Police Chief. Chief Hedrick began his duties on Monday, August 14.

“While the police chief search has been a rigorous and time-consuming process, we are extremely fortunate to be able to hire such a qualified and great human being to oversee our police department,” Scott said. “I have great confidence that Chief Hedrick will bring new energy and ideas to the police department and will be a great leader and mentor for our officers. This is a great step forward not only for the police department but for the entire community.”

Chief Hedrick has led a distinguished career in law enforcement, serving most recently as the police chief in Robersonville since 2021. Before that, he worked for the Lee County Sheriff’s Office in Florida, where he retired after 28 years of service as a Patrol Commander, supervising more than 120 deputies.

Hedrick previously worked as a community-oriented policing officer, canine deputy, detective, special operations supervisor, narcotics supervisor and watch commander. He has received more than 45 awards and commendations during his years of service, including twice being awarded the Florida Association of Narcotics Officer of the Year.

He graduated with his Bachelor of Science Degree from Hodges University in Fort Myers, Fla., and has also attended classes at both Western Carolina and North Carolina State University.

A swearing-in ceremony for Chief Hedrick and public meet and greet will occur later this month.