Durham mayor shares what's next after Chief Andrews announces retirement

DURHAM, N.C. (WTVD) -- The Bull City's top cop has announced that she will be retiring on May 1. Police Chief Patrice Andrews has led the department since November 2021.

After just four years as police chief in Durham, she is turning in her badge.

"We can say in Durham that we have a chief that is compassionate. Someone whose heart literally beats in the streets of Durham. We at least have a standard in what to expect in the next chief," said Mayor Leo Williams.

According to Mayor Williams, the bar is high for Andrews' successor. She has a combined 25 years of service with the Bull City police department and has served in various roles, in addition to serving as police chief in the town of Morrisville.

Her retirement comes as the third quarter crime report shows a nearly 18 percent decrease in violent crime across Durham in comparison to last year. Property crime is also down two percent. Data from the City of Durham showed that as of September 2025, staffing levels were at 74 percent with 394 sworn positions filled.

Durham residents have mixed reactions on how they think she has performed as top cop.

"I think she's done well. As good as any other police chiefs we've had," said Edna Streeter.

"I think she's done okay. Nothing to write home about, but she's done okay. There could be improvements," said William Flagler.

The city said the chief has advanced the police department's mission to work with the community to minimize crime, promote safety and enhance quality of life. The mayor told ABC11 that the city will work quickly to find a successor who is the right fit.

"There will be a formal process, and the staff and city administration will handle that process," said Mayor Williams.