Statesville Police Department News: January 2023

February 2, 2023

Statesville, North Carolina - At the beginning of January, Statesville Police Chief David Onley announced a new program investigating cold cases using retired SPD investigators.  He stated that the first case to be worked would be the homicide of Ethel Weaver, who was found stabbed at her home on Bond Street in the early morning hours of January 3, 1992.  This announcement garnered a lot of attention and saw Chief Onley and Investigator Bill Riter sitting down for interviews with several news agencies.  “We look forward to working through these cases and hope to bring justice and peace of mind to the families of the victims,” stated Chief Onley.

On January 19, a promotional ceremony was held in the Council Chambers of City Hall in which four (4) veterans with the department were promoted.  “These promotions are the key to moving our department forward,” said Chief Onley.  These officers are the future of Statesville and I look forward to seeing them continue to grow in their new positions.”

• Kevin Brookshire was promoted to Sergeant of Bravo Squad.  He has been with the Statesville Police Department for seven (7) years and was formerly Corporal over Traffic and Community services.

• Christy Clearly was promoted to Sergeant of Criminal Investigations.  Sergeant Cleary has been with the Statesville Police Department for 9 years and was formerly a Master Corporal in investigations.

• Samantha Lindon was promoted to Captain of District One.  Captain Lindon has been with the Statesville Police Department for 18 years and was formerly Sergeant over Training & Recruiting and CALEA (Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies). 

• D.B. “Bryan” Johnson was promoted to Assistant Chief of Administration.  Asst. Chief Johnson joined the Statesville Police Department in 1992 as a non-sworn police service aide and has been with the department as a sworn officer for 28 years.  He was formerly Captain over District One and Records & Communications.

Kevin Brookshire

Samantha Lindon

Christy Cleary

Bryan Johnson

January also saw the swearing in of five (5) new police recruits.  All five (5) completed Basic Law Enforcement Training (BLET) at Mitchell Community College and graduated in December 2022.  Four of these recruits were hired under the City of Statesville Police Recruiting Program that has been extremely successful!  Chief Onley introduced the new police recruits at the February 6 City Council meeting.

• Brenna Geyer was born in Forsyth County and graduated from Appalachian State University in 2021.  She has a passion for helping others and being a police officer has always been a dream of hers.

• Ethan Moreau was born in Massachusetts and graduated from North Iredell High School in 2020.  He knew at an early age that he wanted a career in law enforcement and is looking forward to serving the Statesville community.

• Devon Adams graduated high school in Charlotte but was raised here in Statesville.  He wanted to give back to his hometown by serving as a law enforcement officer and is excited to be working for the Statesville Police Department.

• Chavis Finger was born in Catawba County and previously served in the Army National Guard as a combat engineer.  He’s always had an interest in law enforcement and wants to be a role model for future generations, including his 5 (five) daughters!

• Carson Fleming was born in Statesville and always knew he would pursue a career in law enforcement.  He joined the Alexander County Sheriff Explorer’s program at the age of 15.  He previously worked for the Alexander County Detention Center and is excited for the opportunity to serve the Statesville community.

City Manager Ron Smith stated that Chief Onley has done an outstanding job since taking over last year.  “David has made great progress with retention and hiring, and his consistent presence throughout the community at events and meetings has made a lasting impact,” said Smith.  “He has the department moving in the right direction and I couldn’t be happier with the improvements he’s made.

From left: Devon Adams, Chavis Finger, Brenna Geyer, Carson Fleming, and Ethan Moreau

About the City of Statesville

The City of Statesville is truly a diverse community that welcomes new people, new voices and ideas, new industry, and business. We have already made significant investments in our downtown amenities, our business sector, our schools, our infrastructure, and more is on the horizon. We are creating a dynamic future for ourselves as we build on our successful history and the positive energy we experience today, all the while incorporating the values and quality of life that we cherish. To learn more visit www.statesvillenc.net.