Greensboro Hires Police Chief from Ohio Amid Criticism

City manager defends controversial hiring decision as public scrutiny mounts.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 8:55pm

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A dimly lit, cinematic painting of an empty city street at night, with a lone police car parked under a flickering streetlight, conveying a sense of quiet contemplation and unease around the complex dynamics of policing and public trust.The hiring of an out-of-state police chief has sparked concerns about Greensboro's commitment to local leadership and community trust in law enforcement.Greensboro Today

Greensboro city manager Rashad Davis has hired a new police chief, Syed Afzal, from Ohio, despite facing public criticism over the decision. Davis says Afzal is aware of the scrutiny and is committed to addressing community concerns.

Why it matters

Greensboro has faced ongoing issues with policing and public trust, making the selection of a new police chief a high-stakes decision. The city manager's choice to hire an outsider has drawn skepticism from some residents who wanted a local candidate.

The details

Syed Afzal previously served as a police chief in a mid-sized Ohio city. In defending the hiring, Davis said Afzal has the experience and qualifications to lead the Greensboro Police Department through a period of reform and rebuilding public trust.

  • Afzal was hired as Greensboro's new police chief in April 2026.

The players

Rashad Davis

The city manager of Greensboro, North Carolina who hired the new police chief.

Syed Afzal

The new police chief hired from Ohio to lead the Greensboro Police Department.

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What they’re saying

“Chief Afzal, also is aware that there is some public scrutiny around my hiring decision.”

— Rashad Davis, Greensboro City Manager

What’s next

Afzal is expected to begin his new role in Greensboro in the coming weeks, where he will face the challenge of addressing community concerns and rebuilding trust in the police department.

The takeaway

Greensboro's decision to hire an outside police chief from Ohio has sparked public debate, highlighting the ongoing challenges cities face in selecting law enforcement leaders who can effectively serve their communities.