Greensboro Narrows Police Chief Search to Two Candidates

In-person interviews with finalists to be held next week as current chief departs.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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Greensboro city officials have narrowed the search for the city's next police chief down to two candidates and plan to conduct in-person interviews with them next week. The current police chief, John Thompson, is departing his role on Friday, with Assistant Chief Chris Schultheis set to serve as interim chief in the meantime.

Why it matters

The selection of a new police chief is a critical decision for the city of Greensboro, as the chief plays a key role in setting the tone and priorities for the police department. This transition comes at a time when issues of public safety, police-community relations, and law enforcement reform are at the forefront of many communities' concerns.

The details

Greensboro officials did not provide any further details on the identities of the two final police chief candidates. The in-person interviews with the finalists are scheduled to take place next week, as current Police Chief John Thompson departs his role on Friday after serving in the position since 2022 and with the Greensboro Police Department since 2003. In the interim, Assistant Chief Chris Schultheis will serve as the acting police chief.

  • Current Police Chief John Thompson's last day is Friday, February 27, 2026.
  • In-person interviews with the two final police chief candidates will happen next week.

The players

John Thompson

The current police chief of Greensboro, who is departing his role on Friday after serving since 2022 and with the department since 2003.

Chris Schultheis

The assistant police chief of Greensboro, who will serve as the interim police chief after Thompson's departure.

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What’s next

The Greensboro City Council will conduct in-person interviews with the two final police chief candidates next week and is expected to make a decision on the next permanent police chief in the coming weeks.

The takeaway

The selection of Greensboro's next police chief will be a closely watched decision, as the new leader will be tasked with addressing issues of public safety, community relations, and potential law enforcement reforms in the city.