Statesville Police Department announces promotions of four veterans, hiring of new officers

Posted on by Mike Fuhrman
Pictured (from left) are Sgt. Kevin Brookshire, Capt. Samantha Lindon, Sgt. Christy Cleary and Assistant Chief Bryan Johnson.

Special to Iredell Free News

The Statesville Police Department recently announced the promotions of four veteran officers:

♦ Kevin Brookshire was promoted to sergeant of Bravo Squad. He has been with the SPD for seven years and was formerly corporal over Traffic and Community services.

♦ Christy Clearly was promoted to sergeant of Criminal Investigations. Sgt. Cleary has been with the SPD for nine years and was formerly a master corporal in investigations.

♦ Samantha Lindon was promoted to captain of District One. Capt. Lindon has been with the SPD for 18 years and was formerly sergeant over Training & Recruiting and CALEA (Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies).

♦ D.B. “Bryan” Johnson was promoted to assistant chief of administration. Assistant Chief Johnson joined the SPD in 1992 as a non-sworn police service aide and has been with the department as a sworn officer for 28 years. He was formerly captain over District One and Records & Communications.

“These promotions are the key to moving our department forward,” said Chief David Onley. These officers are the future of Statesville and I look forward to seeing them continue to grow in their new positions.”

SPD recruits complete BLET program
Pictured (from left) are Devon Adams, Chavis Finger, Brenna Geyer, Carson Fleming and Ethan Moreau.

Five new police recruits successfully completed Basic Law Enforcement Training at Mitchell Community College and graduated in December 2022. Four of these recruits were hired under the City of Statesville Police Recruiting Program.

Chief David Onley introduced the new police recruits at the February 6 City Council meeting:

♦ Brenna Geyer was born in Forsyth County and graduated from Appalachian State University in 2021. She has a passion for helping others and being a police officer has always been a dream of hers.

♦ Ethan Moreau was born in Massachusetts and graduated from North Iredell High School in 2020. He knew at an early age that he wanted a career in law enforcement and is looking forward to serving the Statesville community.

♦ Devon Adams graduated high school in Charlotte but was raised in Statesville. He wanted to give back to his hometown by serving as a law enforcement officer and is excited to be working for the Statesville Police Department.

♦ Chavis Finger was born in Catawba County and previously served in the Army National Guard as a combat engineer. He’s always had an interest in law enforcement and wants to be a role model for future generations, including his five daughters.

♦ Carson Fleming was born in Statesville and always knew he would pursue a career in law enforcement. He joined the Alexander County Sheriff Explorer’s program at the age of 15. He previously worked for the Alexander County Detention Center and is excited for the opportunity to serve the Statesville community.

City manager praises Onley for work during first year as SPD chief

City Manager Ron Smith stated that Chief Onley has done an outstanding job since taking over last year.

“David has made great progress with retention and hiring, and his consistent presence throughout the community at events and meetings has made a lasting impact,” said Smith. “He has the department moving in the right direction, and I couldn’t be happier with the improvements he’s made.”