James E. Avens, Jr. has been appointed as the new chief of the Matthews Police Department, marking a significant change in the town’s law enforcement leadership. Avens, a resident of Halifax County, began his career at the local sheriff’s office and later worked as a school resource officer with the Northampton County Sheriff’s Office. After returning to his hometown of Weldon, North Carolina, he joined the police department and ascended to the rank of captain in 2017.
In addition to his extensive career experience, Avens is actively involved in several professional organizations. He is a member of the International Association of Chiefs of Police and currently holds the position of President of the North Carolina Police Executive Association. His appointment follows the resignation of the previous Matthews police chief after just six months in the role.
During this transition, Interim Chief Penny Dunn will complete her service with the town, while Avens is set to officially assume his duties on June 2. The new chief expressed his enthusiasm for the role, highlighting Matthews as a vibrant and welcoming community with a strong dedication to public safety. He looks forward to collaborating with the committed professionals of the Matthews Police Department to foster trust and cooperation within the community.
The Bottom Line
The appointment of James E. Avens, Jr. as the new police chief marks a pivotal moment for the Matthews community, with potential implications for how public safety is managed and perceived in the area. As Avens brings both local roots and extensive experience to the position, residents can anticipate a leadership style that emphasizes community engagement and proactive safety measures.
The transition in leadership may also lead to shifts in departmental priorities and initiatives, which could affect how residents interact with law enforcement. Avens’ involvement in professional organizations suggests a commitment to staying abreast of best practices in policing, which could translate into more effective and progressive strategies for maintaining public safety in Matthews.