"The Tunnel to Towers Charlotte climb is far more than a physical challenge. It stands as a powerful symbol of resilience, sacrifice and unity."
With hundreds gathering at Bank of America stadium for the annual stair climb this morning, this event serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices that first responders and their families make as well as the hardships that they often live with every day. This climb raises money for the families of those who have made the ultimate sacrifice, to aid those who have been injured in the line of duty and so much more.
Good luck to everyone making the climb today!
This morning, we came together to pay tribute to the officers who laid down their lives in service to our community. Standing with their families and partner agencies, we reflected on the profound impact of their service, honoring their strength, courage and sacrifice.
These heroes stepped forward when others stepped back. Their dedication to protecting our community will forever echo through the lives they touched. We honor their memory, uphold their legacy and remain committed to carrying forward the values they embodied.
What a day! 🙌 Police Week Field Day was a blast, with employees vying for the exclusive bragging rights of being the 2026 cornhole or kickball champs and everyone trying their hand at archery. It was a day filled with friendly competition, good food and even better people. Another great day celebrating the people who work tirelessly to serve our community every day.
Leadership isn't a rank; it's a mindset, and today our Command College graduates showed that you can lead from the front from anywhere in the department. We're proud of their dedication and excited for the impact they'll make as they step into the next chapter of their careers. Their commitment to growth, service and excellence not only strengthens the department but the communities we serve as well. Congratulations graduates!
"We celebrate the accomplishments of 147 recipient awardees, all of whom have demonstrated courage, valor and leadership. They are carrying out the legacy of the heroes who gave the ultimate sacrifice, and they are doing so by being a leader and being out front." - Chief Estella Patterson
This morning we honored 147 individuals for their exceptional service and bravery over the past year. Every year, we gather to recognize sworn and professional staff members whose extraordinary work has made a profound impact in our community as well as to highlight the standard of excellence that is held across our department. From Lifesaving Awards to Medals of Valor and more, thank you all for the hard work and heroism throughout the year, keep up the amazing work!
Ride along with a CMPD officer in episode twelve of our Safety Around the Crown video series as we hit the streets of Charlotte to learn more about their work and what a typical shift looks like. Hear from Officer Eiler, from our Steele Creek Division, about what second shift is like in one of our bigger divisions, and what made him choose CMPD.
Interested in a career with CMPD? Click the link in our bio 🔗
Day two of Police Week was a slam DUNK, 👀 with a cookout and members of command staff taking turns braving the dunk tank in support of the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Benevolent Fund! Lieutenants, Captains, Majors and even Deputy Chiefs left their fate up to the throwing arm of everyone across the department. It was a great day of food, fun, camaraderie and it certainly made a splash! 🌊
We kicked off National Police week strong this morning as 77 teams from across our department and multiple agencies tackled "The Challenge". This annual run through Uptown features ten extreme exercise stations throughout and is designed to push their strength, endurance and teamwork. Thank you to everyone who came out and helped launch this year's Police Week with such momentum! 🚔💙
Last week, repeat offender, Sidney Duron Truesdale, 42, was charged in connection with multiple vehicle break-in cases across the South Division. Investigators were able to connect a stolen black Charger at multiple crime scenes across the city back to Truesdale. From April 11 to April 18, South Division officers responded to multiple break-ins at hotels, fitness centers and country clubs.
On April 19, cross-division collaboration identified Truesdale as the suspect. The same day, Truesdale was arrested by @ncstatehighwaypatrol in Iredell County and later transferred to the custody of @mecksheriff . The stolen vehicle that was in possession of Truesdale was also recovered.
Truesdale is currently charged with the following:
• 12 counts of Breaking and Entering Motor Vehicle
• 4 counts of Misdemeanor Larceny
• 2 counts of Felony Larceny
• 1 count of Breaking and Entering a Motor Vehicle with Theft
Detectives are continuing to review additional cases for possible connections. Great teamwork across divisions led to a strong case and safer community!
For more information on these cases, reference complaint numbers: 20260418-1614-02, 20260416-2003-00, 20260416-2211-02, 20260416-1559-05, 20260411-0651-00, 20260411-0742-01.
As a small token of appreciation for the mothers and mother-figures across our community who inspire us with their strength, compassion and heart, our Community Engagement Unit handed out roses on Friday, sharing smiles, gratitude and a little bit of sunshine. Happy Mother's Day!
Happy Mother's Day from CMPD! Thank you to all the moms who raised heroes and to all the heroes who are moms! We are thankful today and every day for your guidance, strength and resilience.
Pedaling with a purpose 🚲
Today, we were privileged to host the local agency start of the 2026 Bike2DC - Ride to Honor. This 500-mile, 4-day journey brings officers and community members together to honor the heroes who have made the ultimate sacrifice. Every mile is a tribute to those who gave their life in service to their community. Their bravery and dedication will continue to guide us every day and will guide this ride to its D.C. destination.
Thank you to everyone making and supporting this ride. Have a safe journey!