Roberto Bryan Jr., Named New Chief of Police

FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. — City Manager Douglas J. Hewett today announced the appointment of Roberto E. Bryan Jr. as the next chief of the Fayetteville Police Department. Bryan, a 30-year law-enforcement veteran and current Associate Vice Chancellor and Chief of Police at Fayetteville State University, will assume command on July 7.

Bryan succeeds Chief Kemberle Braden, who retired after nearly three decades of service to the City of Fayetteville.

“Chief-select Bryan has deep roots in Fayetteville and a proven record of building community trust while driving crime-reduction strategies,” Hewett said. “His combination of federal, municipal and campus-policing experience makes him uniquely qualified to guide the department’s next chapter.”

Bryan joined Fayetteville State University Police & Public Safety in 2022 after serving as a major over the Fayetteville Police Department’s Specialized Services Bureau from 2019 to 2022 and completing a 22-year career with the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, where he held multiple command assignments.

At Fayetteville State University, Bryan swiftly advanced public-safety capabilities by successfully negotiating market-rate pay increases for non-sworn officers and standing up both explosive-detection and narcotics/tracking K-9 units. He also introduced an unmanned-aircraft program staffed by six FAA-certified pilots, lifting officer staffing from 57.9 percent to 95 percent in just 30 months. To tie these enhancements together, he drafted a Real-Time Crime Center blueprint that positions drones as first-responders, giving dispatchers and field units instant aerial intelligence during critical incidents.

“His proven record of building community trust while embracing innovative crime-reduction strategies makes him the right leader to guide our department, and our residents, into the next chapter of public safety,” added Hewett.

Bryan holds a Master of Science in Criminal Justice from Fayetteville State University and a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from East Carolina University. He is a graduate of the Senior Management Institute for Police and an Army veteran.

“I am deeply honored to be appointed as the Chief of Police for the City of Fayetteville. With over 30 years of service across city, state, and federal law enforcement, this moment represents both a professional milestone and a personal homecoming,” said Bryan. “City policing has always been the foundation of my career, a place where meaningful connections are made and real impact begins.”

Bryan will meet with stakeholders in each patrol district during a series of community conversations and outreach events scheduled ahead of his swearing-in. Details will be posted on city social-media channels.

“As I conclude my law enforcement journey where it all started, I am committed to leading with integrity, fostering trust, and working collaboratively to enhance public safety and improve the quality of life for all who call Fayetteville home,” added Bryan.