City Manager Douglas J. Hewett has named Assistant Police Chief C. Todd Joyce as the interim police chief, effective upon the retirement of current Police Chief Kemberle Braden. Joyce, a native of Fayetteville, has served the city for more than 26 years and joined the Fayetteville Police Department shortly after the attacks of Sept. 11, 2001. 

"We’re excited to announce Assistant Chief Joyce as the interim police chief while we’re searching for the new chief,” said City Manager Doug Hewett in a press release. “With a commitment to our Police Department and community for over 26 years, I know he will ensure the great work our officers are doing everyday will continue flawlessly.” 

Joyce has worked in various roles within the department and most recently served as commander of Field Operations and Specialized Services. He is a graduate of the 26th session of the Management Development Program at the North Carolina Justice Academy. In 2021, he was selected as a delegate to Israel through the Georgia International Law Enforcement Exchange Program, which provided insight into the challenges faced by Israeli police. 

He previously served as president of the North Carolina Police Executives Association and remains a board member. In December 2024, Joyce was appointed as a commissioner to the North Carolina Criminal Justice Education and Training Standards Commission.

“Assistant Chief Joyce has continuously shown his dedication to serving the people of Fayetteville,” Hewett said in a press release. “His breadth of experience and leadership will help guide the department during this transitional period.” 

Joyce will assume the interim chief duties following Chief Braden’s retirement. Chief Braden is set to retire on March 31.