CARY, N.C. (WPTF) — After more than five years with the Cary Police Department and over five decades in law enforcement in three states, Cary Police Chief Terry Sult has decided to retire effective January 15, 2027.
Sult became Cary’s 14th Chief in 2022 after having been named Interim Chief in 2021.
“I want to thank Terry for his work to strengthen leadership capabilities in the department and develop a strategic plan for the future, all while upholding Cary’s reputation as one of the safest communities in America,” said Town Manager Russ Overton in a press release. “We wish him well in his retirement.”
Regarding his decision, Sult said, “When I came to Cary, I was asked to address internal leadership development and enhance the Department’s preparedness capabilities. I agreed to three to five years of service. I believe both the Department and I have met those obligations. Now, after 50 years in policing, it’s time to relax and spend time with my family. I want to thank the residents of Cary, the Council, and the Manager for the time we spent together. It’s been an honor.”
Sult, 69, began his career with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department where he rose to the rank of Captain. He later led departments in Gastonia, North Carolina, Sandy Springs, Georgia, where he also served as Public Safety Director, and Hampton, Virginia.
Overton said that he wants to have conversations with the Police Department in the coming weeks about the next chief, then work with the Town’s Human Resources staff on options for a 2027 recruitment process.
The Cary Police Department has 270 staff, of which 218 are sworn officers.