Raleigh Police Department

Leading the Raleigh Police Department is Chief Estella Patterson. Under her guidance, the department is organized into various sections, each playing a pivotal role in maintaining law and order in Raleigh:

• Chief of Police: The police department is headed by Chief Estella Patterson, a dedicated and experienced leader who oversees the various units and sections within the RPD.
• Field Operations Division: This is where officers are primarily on the ground, patrolling neighborhoods, responding to calls, and ensuring the overall safety of the public.
• Crime Prevention Unit: This unit develops strategies to deter crime. They explore and implement ways to engage the community, encouraging residents to take proactive steps that reduce opportunities for criminal activity.
• Policy and Governance Section: In collaboration with the Mayor and City Council, this section is responsible for reviewing and establishing policies that provide direction and structure for the department’s operations.
• Community Relations Unit: This unit seeks to foster a strong relationship between the police and the community. They focus on outreach, dialogue, and partnership initiatives.

The Raleigh Police Department, as the primary law enforcement agency in Raleigh, has a rich history that intertwines with the growth and evolution of the city itself. As the city expanded over the years, so did the roles and responsibilities of the RPD. From its humble beginnings, the department has grown in manpower and technological prowess, now boasting a staff of over 900 and an annual budget in the millions.

Raleigh Police Department’s collaboration with the community stands at the heart of its crime prevention and public safety strategies. Through programs such as the “Cops on Top Event for Special Olympics NC,” officers engage directly with residents, bridging the gap and fostering positive relations. Events like these are more than just fundraisers; they are platforms for dialogue, understanding, and unity.

The department has faced challenges in building trust, especially in communities of color. Yet, the Raleigh Police Department remains committed to breaking down barriers, as evidenced by community-centric activities like National Night Out. Here, officers were seen engaging in light-hearted activities like playing cards with community members, indicating the department’s dedication to seeing law enforcement officers as part of the community they serve.

Raleigh Police Department is not limited to reactive measures. The department’s proactive stance towards crime is evident in its approach to “minimize opportunities for victimization.” Through community partnerships and effective strategies, they aim to promote a positive level of real and perceived safety, creating a thriving atmosphere for the residents of Raleigh.

Address: 6716 Six Forks Road, Raleigh, NC, 27615.

Click here to view Raleigh accident reports