After a nationwide search, Jason Armstrong has been selected as the next Apex Police Chief. Armstrong, a North Carolina native, has been the Chief of Police in Ferguson, Mo., since 2019.
“I never imagined my career journey would land me back in N.C.,” wrote Armstrong in a statement announcing his appointment. “My parents still live in the same house I grew up in, in Fayetteville, and my wife’s parents also live in the area. The great things on the horizon for Apex and the benefits of having our family close by made this the right opportunity at the right time.”
The search for a new chief was a community effort from the Town of Apex. With a heavy emphasis on community engagement early in the process, input was gathered from town employees, community groups, business stakeholders, faith-based groups, neighborhood association leadership, and others.
“We heard several themes emerge from the community engagement process,” said Apex Town Manager Katy Crosby. “Our stakeholders desired a candidate who could build trust, provide equitable treatment of all residents to ensure they feel safe in their town, and foster a positive internal culture. Not only was Mr. Armstrong consistently the top candidate throughout the entire assessment process, he also has a proven track record of addressing the topics that emerged from the community’s feedback.”
Armstrong’s first day on the job will be Aug. 2. Community meet-and-greet events will be scheduled in August, where Armstrong and Crosby will focus on listening and learning how to best serve the town. Stay tuned to www.apexnc.org/chief for a list of meeting dates.
Armstrong, a graduate of N.C. Central University, began his law enforcement career in 2001 with the Forest Park, Ga., Police Department. He rose through the ranks at the department, eventually being named Interim Chief of Police.
“I’m very excited and humbled to be joining the Apex Police Department, and Apex community. I see great potential for the town and the Police Department, and I’m eager to be a part of the continued growth and progress in Apex,” wrote Armstrong.
“The law enforcement profession is in a state of change and the time is now for communities to come together and collaborate with law enforcement to identify a pathway forward that represents the values of a safe and diverse community.”
