Asheville, NC, September 6, 2025
News Summary
Asheville Police Chief Mike Lamb has announced his impending retirement, expected in late November or December. After nearly 28 years in law enforcement, he has made significant contributions to the community and the Asheville Police Department.
Asheville – Asheville Police Chief Mike Lamb has announced his plans to retire, likely in late November or December of 2025. The announcement was made during the Council of Independent Business Owners (CIBO) meeting on September 5, 2025, with confirmation of his retirement plans following through an official email from the City of Asheville.
Lamb has dedicated nearly 28 years of service to the Asheville Police Department (APD), having started his career there on February 16, 1998. Over his distinguished tenure, he has ascended through the ranks, serving as Sergeant, Lieutenant, Captain, and Deputy Chief. His noteworthy leadership roles included overseeing the Community Engagement Division as a Captain and working as the Patrol Division Executive Officer.
Throughout his career, Lamb’s roles have encompassed a range of responsibilities—from commanding the Adam and Charlie Districts as a lieutenant to leading the Public Housing Unit and the APD’s Gang Unit as a sergeant. He has also contributed to the training of new officers, serving as an instructor in Basic Law Enforcement Training, Physical Training, and De-escalation techniques.
A native of Asheville, Lamb graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice from Western Carolina University in 1997 and completed his high school education at A.C. Reynolds High School. He further enhanced his qualifications by graduating from the Police Executive Research Forum (PERF) Senior Management Institute for Police.
In December 2023, Lamb served as interim chief before being confirmed as the permanent chief in February 2024. His promotion was significant as he became the first veteran officer to be elevated to the position of chief from within the department in over two decades. Upon stepping into this role, Lamb pledged to increase the department’s emphasis on community policing initiatives.
Under Chief Lamb’s leadership, the Appalachian region witnessed some significant events, including the response and rescue operations during Hurricane Helene in 2024, which tragically resulted in over 100 fatalities across North Carolina. Despite the challenges, Lamb has remained committed to finishing his career with the Asheville Police Department, aligning with his longstanding dedication to public safety in the community.
The announcement of his retirement has prompted reflections on his extensive contributions to the city and the police department. As the APD prepares for Lamb’s transition out of the position, conversations about potential succession and the future direction of the department are expected to unfold in the upcoming months.
FAQ
What is the planned retirement date for Police Chief Mike Lamb?
Chief Mike Lamb plans to retire in late November or December of 2025.
How long has Mike Lamb served in the Asheville Police Department?
Mike Lamb has served in the Asheville Police Department for nearly 28 years, since February 16, 1998.
What positions has Mike Lamb held within the Asheville Police Department?
He has held the ranks of Sergeant, Lieutenant, Captain, and Deputy Chief during his tenure.
What significant events occurred under Lamb’s leadership?
During his leadership, APD notably responded to Hurricane Helene in 2024, which resulted in over 100 deaths in North Carolina.
What position did Lamb hold before becoming the Police Chief?
Before becoming Police Chief, Mike Lamb served as interim chief in December 2023 and was confirmed as the permanent chief in February 2024.
Key Features of Police Chief Mike Lamb’s Career
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Years of Service | 28 years (since February 16, 1998) |
| Highest Rank Achieved | Chief of Police |
| Previous Ranks | Sergeant, Lieutenant, Captain, Deputy Chief |
| Community Initiatives | Emphasis on community policing |
| Hurricane Response | Led APD response during Hurricane Helene in 2024 |
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Additional Resources
- WLOS: Asheville Police Chief Mike Lamb to Retire
- Fox Carolina: Asheville Police Chief Mike Lamb Retiring
- WSPA: Asheville Police Chief Announces Retirement Plans
- Wikipedia: Asheville
- Google Search: Asheville Police Department
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