Asheville Welcomes New Chief of Police: A Year in Review
Asheville, known for its vibrant culture and beautiful scenery, has recently seen some significant changes in its law enforcement leadership. On February 2025, Asheville Police Chief Mike Lamb will celebrate his first year as chief, following the resignation of former Chief David Zack in December 2023. As we look back on this inaugural year, Chief Lamb shared insights into what the role has been like and what the future holds.
Finding Support in the Community
One of the most unexpected aspects of his new position has been the overwhelming support from the Asheville community. Chief Lamb expressed that he has been humbled by the encouragement directed toward him and his officers. He noted, “It is clear that our community values our agency, and equally importantly, the relationships we have built over the years.” This sentiment reflects a core belief in policing: relationships are the real currency. In challenging times, it’s these connections that lead community members to seek help from officers they trust.
To foster and strengthen these relationships, the Asheville Police Department has successfully reinstated the Citizens Police Academy (CPA), which was put on hold in 2019. This program aims to give community members a deeper understanding of police work while also fostering personal connections between residents and the department. Chief Lamb believes these dialogues are crucial for building trust and understanding in the community.
Challenges Faced This Year
Every role has its challenges, and Chief Lamb’s first year was no exception. The most significant hurdle facing the Asheville Police Department (APD) has been a reduced staffing situation. With the vacancies affecting the department’s ability to deliver the level of service the community deserves, they have worked creatively to handle the situation. And then came the storm named Helene. After the storm, once cell service was restored, the volume of emergency calls surged to historic highs, ranging from reports of looting to missing persons.
Despite these hurdles, the teamwork within and outside the APD shone through. The department received support from police agencies both in North Carolina and across the nation during this trying time. Currently, the APD has about 62 vacancies, but there’s a ray of light on the horizon: 15 new cadets are slated to begin the academy in January, marking the largest class in several years. Chief Lamb is optimistic that this trend will continue, helping to bolster the department with fresh talent.
Memorable Moments that Inspire
Chief Lamb has been on the front lines of many poignant moments in his first year. One interaction left a lasting impression on him. During the height of the storm, while he was driving through Tunnel Road, he saw a man clearing fallen branches from a downed tree to allow first responders through. Chief Lamb took a moment to thank the man for his effort. “This was just one of many instances after the storm where I witnessed our community members helping each other,” he reflected, emphasizing the spirit of community that Asheville embodies.
Advice for the Future
Looking back, if Chief Lamb could offer himself advice for the upcoming year, he would remind himself to lean on the strength of his officers and the support of the city. He noted the value of teamwork and collaboration post-Helene, realizing the tremendous challenges the department faced can be overcome when everyone comes together.
As Asheville continues its journey under Chief Mike Lamb’s leadership, his commitment to fostering relationships, addressing challenges, and embracing community is clear. Here’s to another year of growth, connection, and unwavering support for the Asheville Police Department!
