Frank Palombo, Chief of Police    

Chief Palombo has been New Bern's Chief of Police since

July 28, 1997. He holds a Bachelors degree in Psychology from the University of South Florida and a Masters degree in Public Administration from Troy State University. Chief Palombo moved to New Bern from Florida after serving twenty-one years with the Clearwater Police Department. Working his way through the ranks, Chief Palombo served in nearly every element of the Clearwater Police Department. While a Sergeant, Chief Palombo developed and implemented Clearwater's first Community Policing Program. He attained national acclaim as an expert in community policing and has lectured across the country. As a Captain, he served as the Commander of the Criminal Investigations Division, the Communications Division and the Patrol Division.

Since arriving in New Bern, Chief Palombo established a framework for progress within the department. He has developed a cohesive management team and together they have provided a clear vision and direction for the future of the department. Education and staff development are two of Chief Palombo's primary concerns. During Chief Palombo's stay, the New Bern Police Department has increased the number of personnel holding college degrees from seven to 57, and 28 are currently pursuing a degree. In addition, several staff members have attended advanced leadership training and all supervisors are involved in management development training. In March of 2004, the department received national accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, which places the New Bern Police Department shoulder to shoulder with the finest police departments in the country.  The department was reaccredited in 2006, and will be up for reaccrediation again in 2009. 

Chief Palombo has created an open line of communication within the department that fosters participation at all levels and in all areas of the mission. Under Chief Palombo's guidance, the department has enhanced its community policing efforts by institutionalizing the community policing philosophy and empowering employees to get involved and participate as active partners with our citizens to solve problems and address long standing community concerns within the city.

Chief Palombo currently serves as a Commissioner on two state-wide commissions; the State Emergency Response Commission and the Structured Sentencing and Policy Advisory Commission.  He serves on many boards both locally and on the state level.

Chief Palombo is a past President of the North Carolina Association of Chiefs of Police.

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