DURHAM, N.C. (WPTF) – Durham officials have named a temporary replacement for retiring police chief Patrice Andrews.
Deputy Chief Walter Tate will serve as interim police chief effective May 1, the same day as Andrews officially retires.
Tate has served the Durham Police Department for more than 30 years, beginning his career with the agency in 1995. He has been deputy chief since August 2023 and has held leadership roles across the department, including assistant chief of the Investigations Bureau; major and captain assignments in district operations and investigations; and supervisory positions in patrol, criminal investigations, and court liaison functions.
In a press release, City Manager Bo Ferguson said Tate’s long record of service and steady leadership made him the right choice to guide the department during the transition. “Deputy Chief Tate has deep experience across every part of this department and a strong commitment to our community,” Ferguson said. “His leadership, professionalism, and understanding of Durham’s needs make him well-suited to serve in this interim role. I’m grateful for his willingness to step in as we continue the search for our next permanent chief.”
Tate holds a Bachelor of Science in Behavioral and Social Sciences from North Carolina Central University and completed Basic Law Enforcement Training through the Durham Police Academy. His professional development includes the Senior Management Institute for Police, the FBI LEEDA Trilogy, the West Point Leadership Program, FEMA command‑level training, and advanced training in coordinated incident response.
He is active in several professional organizations, including the International Association of Chiefs of Police, the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives, and the Police Executive Research Forum, and serves on the Durham County Criminal Justice Advisory Committee.
Throughout his career, Tate has been heavily involved in community programs, including volunteer work with the Police Athletic League, youth coaching, victim advocacy, Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) outreach, mentoring with the D.L. Forbes Mentoring and Leadership Program, and speaking on racial equity issues at Duke University. In 2017, he was inducted into the Salvation Army Boys and Girls Club Emanuel Croslan Hall of Fame.
The City has begun the search for a permanent police chief and is seeking community input. Residents are encouraged to complete an online survey, available in English and Spanish through April 24, on the City’s website.