Incoming Police Chief Andy Wilson recently announced two promotions at the Lenoir Police Department. Couby Stilwell has moved up to Major, and Martin Crisp has been promoted to Captain.
Chief Wilson said there will be several forthcoming promotional opportunities for officers who are ready to step into new roles and responsibilities at the department. The opportunities have opened with the retirement of Chief Brent Phelps and the promotion of Chief Wilson to the position.
“These changes are part of our continued effort to build a strong, forward-thinking department that remains dedicated to serving and protecting the citizens of Lenoir with courage, character, and accountability,” Chief Wilson said. “Chief Phelps has dedicated 30 years of distinguished service to this department and community, and we are grateful for his leadership, vision, and commitment to not only the community, but the people here at the Lenoir Police Department.”
Major Couby Stilwell
Major Stilwell started serving the Lenoir Police Department in January 1998 and has built a distinguished career over the past 27 years. During his tenure, he has served in a variety of key roles including Master Patrol Officer, Patrol Sergeant, Lieutenant in both the Patrol and Investigations Divisions, and most recently as Captain over Investigations and Support Services. Maj. Stilwell holds a Bachelor’s Degree from Appalachian State University, is a graduate of the FBI National Academy, and has earned the North Carolina Advanced Law Enforcement Certificate.
“Major Stilwell will assume command-level responsibilities and continue helping guide the future direction of our department,” Chief Wilson said. “I am confident in his leadership and know that he will serve with the same integrity, work ethic, and professionalism that have defined his career.”
Maj. Stilwell will serve as second-in-command at the department.
Captain Martin Crisp
Captain Crisp started serving the Lenoir Police Department in January 2011. He has held a variety of critical roles, including Master Patrol Officer, Investigator, Corporal, Sergeant, and most recently, Lieutenant. Prior to his law enforcement career, he served honorably in the United States Marine Corps for eight years, attaining the rank of Sergeant. Capt. Crisp holds the North Carolina Advanced Law Enforcement Certificate and is certified as both a General Instructor and a Specialized Instructor in multiple law enforcement disciplines. He has contributed to training statewide and has served on the North Carolina advisory board for subject control techniques. Since 2012, Capt. Crisp has served on the department’s Special Response Team, where he has steadily advanced to the role of Assistant Team Commander. As Captain, he will assume full responsibility as the Team Commander of the Special Response Team.
“Capt. Crisp’s extensive experience, leadership, and instructional background uniquely qualify him for this next step,” Chief Wilson said. “His professionalism and dedication to both officer development and operational readiness have positively impacted the department and will continue to do so in his new role.”
Crisp will be assigned to oversee the Patrol Division, as Captain Jody Herman transitions into the role of Support Services Captain.
The Lenoir Police Department operates three divisions: Criminal Investigations Division, Patrol Division, and Support Services Division. Click the following link to learn more about Police Department services and programs, Police.