Wilmington, NC Police Department

06/12/2026

FLASHBACK FRIDAY 📸

Long before digital databases and computer-aided records systems, the Wilmington Police Department's records were maintained entirely by hand.

In 1939, WPD began updating a decade's worth of police records to meet FBI guidelines. A team of seven employees worked around the clock in three eight-hour shifts to complete the massive undertaking.

By 1947, Lt. H. E. Williamson and Lt. Sanders developed a new records management system that assigned a unique number to every arrest and investigation. Cases were cross-referenced through master files, name files, and location files, creating an organized system that helped investigators quickly access critical information. The women pictured in these photographs played a vital role in maintaining and managing these extensive records.

The Identification and Records Bureau also tracked problem locations, stolen property, repeat offenders, vehicle collisions, and criminal methods of operation.

By 1952, the Wilmington Police Department was recognized as having the best records bureau in North Carolina.

We want to recognize our current Records Division for continuing this important work and serving as a critical part of our department's daily operations. Their dedication ensures officers, investigators, and community members have access to the information they need while preserving the history of our agency!

06/12/2026

We look forward to seeing you August 4th for National Night Out! Make sure to mark your calendars now! 📆🚔

06/12/2026

STAYING SAFE IN THE HEAT ☀️

With temperatures and humidity expected to remain high throughout the weekend in Wilmington, the WPD encourages everyone to take precautions to protect themselves and their families from heat-related illnesses.

-Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.

-Limit strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day.

-Wear lightweight clothing.

-Take frequent breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas if working or exercising outside.

-Wear sunscreen to prevent sunburn, which can make it harder for the body to cool itself.

-Avoid excessive caffeine and alcohol, which can contribute to dehydration.

-Check on elderly neighbors, young children, and anyone who may be more vulnerable to the heat.

-Always utilize an air conditioner or fan when possible indoors.

-Never leave children or pets unattended in a vehicle, even for a short period of time.

-Call 911 immediately if you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of a heat stroke or other severe heat-related illness.

06/12/2026

WPD CONTINUES TO STRENGTHEN LEADERSHIP TEAM

We are excited to welcome Brooke Wright as Assistant Chief of Police! Wright brings nearly three decades of law enforcement experience and executive leadership, along with prior service in the United States Air Force. Most recently serving as Assistant Chief with the Fairfax County Police Department in Virginia, she has led initiatives focused on violent crime reduction, officer wellness, recruitment, retention, and organizational excellence. Wright is a graduate of the FBI National Academy and the Major Cities Chiefs Association Police Executive Leadership Institute, maintains an FBI Top Secret Security Clearance, and was recognized with the Fairfax County Police Department's Chief's Eagle Award in 2024. Wright holds a Master of Public Safety degree from the University of Virginia and a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Bluefield College.

“I am excited to welcome Assistant Chief Wright to the WPD. She brings decades of strong law enforcement leadership experience, which will greatly benefit both our community and department. Her extensive background in operations, criminal investigations, personnel development, and interagency collaboration will be a tremendous asset as we continue strengthening public safety and organizational excellence,” said Chief Ryan Zuidema.

Please also join us in congratulating Captain Rodney Dawson on his promotion to Deputy Chief of Police. A 22-year veteran of the WPD, Deputy Chief Dawson has served the Wilmington community with dedication, professionalism, and a commitment to innovation throughout his career. His leadership has helped shape many of the department's operational and technology advancements, and we look forward to his continued impact in this new role.

"Deputy Chief Dawson has served the WPD with distinction for more than two decades. He has demonstrated strong leadership, deep knowledge of our community, and a commitment to community policing. His promotion recognizes both his proven experience and the confidence we have in his ability to help guide our agency forward. I look forward to working with Deputy Chief Dawson as we continue our mission to serve and protect the residents of Wilmington,” said Chief Ryan Zuidema.

Deputy Chief Dawson holds a Master of Arts in Conflict Management and Resolution with a concentration in National and International Security from the University of North Carolina Wilmington and a Bachelor of Science degree from Mount Olive University. He recently completed the Senior Management Institute for Police, a Police Executive Research Forum program that is one of the nation's premier executive leadership programs for law enforcement professionals.

Both appointments follow nationwide search processes and become effective July 13. Please join us in welcoming Assistant Chief Wright and congratulating Deputy Chief Dawson as they step into these important leadership roles serving the Wilmington community!

06/11/2026

More people are on the roads! ☀️🌡️

Drivers — watch out for walkers, runners, bicyclists, and everything in between.

Pedestrians — follow the rules of the road and use crosswalks when available.

06/11/2026

WPD FALLEN HERO: OFFICER JORDAN

06/11/2026

News Release
Wilmington Police Department
Wednesday, June 10, 2026

UPDATE: WPD INVESTIGATING FATAL SHOOTING/SUSPECT IN CUSTODY

Investigators with the Wilmington Police Department, in conjunction with the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (SBI), and the Pender County Sheriff's Office have served an arrest warrant on 29-year-old Trayquan Maleak Hasty. Hasty has been charged with 1st Degree Murder in the shooting death of 23-year-old Emir Moore. Hasty is currently being held in the New Hanover County Detention Center under no bond and will make his first court appearance tomorrow.

Our sincere condolences, thoughts and prayers continue to go out to the Moore family from this tragic event.

This investigation remains active and ongoing. Anyone with information related to this incident is encouraged to contact the Wilmington Police Department at (910) 343- 3600 or submit tips anonymously through Tip 411.

06/10/2026

STANLEY CUP

🏒 The Stanley Cup Final is heating up, and we wanted to know where our Wilmington Police Department team stands!

We asked WPD officers and staff one important question: *Who are you rooting for to win the Stanley Cup?!? 👀

The answers may surprise you! From lifelong hockey fans and athletes to a few who picked their team based on a good feeling, everyone had an opinion.

🎥 Check out our latest reel to see which team earned the most support around WPD!

06/10/2026

Wilmington Police Department
News Release
Wednesday, June 10, 2026

WPD INVESTIGATING ARMED ROBBERY OF LOCAL BUSINESS; SUSPECT IN CUSTODY

Shortly after 12:30pm this afternoon, officers with the Wilmington Police Department responded to an armed robbery of the Scotchman located at 898 S. Kerr Avenue. The suspect entered the business and brandished a knife. The suspect stole two cans of beer before fleeing on foot. While officers were on scene and in the area investigating, the suspect was spotted and taken into custody. During the arrest, the suspect began fighting and assaulting officers, resulting in minor injuries to law enforcement personnel. Investigators believe the suspect acted alone and there is no current threat to the public. The investigation is still on-going, and additional information will be released once provided by detectives.

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06/10/2026

https://www.wwaytv3.com/wpd-offers-inside-look-at-crime-fighting-surveillance-video-after-downtown-shooting/

In the wake of a deadly shooting in downtown Wilmington early Saturday morning, the Wilmington Police Department is providing a closer look at the technology it uses to support officers and monitor activity across the city.