North Raleigh Today

Deputy Chief Rico Boyce has been appointed as the 31st Chief of the Raleigh Police Department, according to an announcement made by City Manager Marchell Adams-David. Boyce, who has served with the department for 25 years, will succeed Chief Estella Patterson upon her retirement on March 1.

Adams-David expressed confidence in Boyce's abilities, stating: “We are pleased to announce that our national search process has identified someone who has served Raleigh for more than two decades as our next Chief of Police. Rico Boyce has demonstrated that he knows how to effectively work with the community, and our process demonstrated the trust the community and the police department have in him.”

The selection process was extensive, involving candidates from across the United States and Canada. Adams-David noted: “We are grateful to the community and the many stakeholders for their participation in this comprehensive process... We have confirmed that Rico Boyce is the right person for the job, delivering the right combination of leadership, empathy, tactical knowledge, and community connection."

Boyce began his career as a patrol officer in Raleigh’s Southeast District before advancing through various roles including school resource officer, gang suppression unit member, and detective in financial crimes. He held positions such as Sergeant, Lieutenant, Watch Commander, Captain in Southeast District and later Major overseeing field operations.

As Deputy Chief of Operations, Boyce pioneered initiatives like a drone unit to enhance event monitoring. He also developed an autism awareness program during his tenure as Deputy Chief of Administration.

Reflecting on his appointment, Boyce stated: “I would like to begin by expressing my heartfelt gratitude to my family for their unwavering support throughout my entire career with the Raleigh Police Department. I am deeply thankful to City Manager Marchell Adams-David for the incredible opportunity..."

Boyce is set to lead over 900 personnel within the department. His immediate goals include strengthening community relationships and ensuring transparency. He holds a Bachelor’s degree from North Carolina Central University and an MBA from Pfeiffer University.

Adams-David concluded: “Boyce will assume duties as acting police chief on March 1 and he will be sworn in as Raleigh’s 31st Police Chief later in March.”