Chief Johnny Jennings Johnny Jennings was sworn in as Chief of Police of the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department on July 1, 2020. He has over 30 years of dedicated public service to the City of Charlotte and a strong track record of being a forward thinking, innovative leader within the organization. Upon his swearing in as Chief, Jennings provided key leadership in the CMPD’s response to the 2020 civil unrest and the COVID-19 pandemic. He successfully implemented his CORE4 strategic direction — Crime Management, Employee Wellness, Professional Accountability and Community Collaboration — to expand collaborative relationships within the CMPD and community, increase public safety and enhance trust, fairness and respect in the community. A native of Jefferson City, Tennessee, Jennings earned a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from Appalachian State University where he played football as a linebacker from 1986-1990, earning all-American accolades. In 2010, Jennings was inducted into the Appalachian State University Athletic Hall of Fame. He holds a master’s degree from Pfeiffer University in Business Administration. He is also a graduate of the FBI National Academy, a graduate of the Senior Management Institute for Police, and a graduate of the FBI National Executive Institute. Chief Johnny Jennings Chief of Police Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department Leadership