GREENSBORO, N.C. — The City of Greensboro has appointed an interim chief of police as current Police Chief John Thompson prepares to retire at the end of the month.
Assistant Chief Chris Schultheis will serve as interim chief of the Greensboro Police Department beginning Feb. 27, city officials announced. Thompson’s retirement marks the conclusion of his tenure leading the department.
Nearly Three Decades with the Greensboro Police Department
Schultheis joined the Greensboro Police Department in 1998 as a member of the 74th Police Academy. Over the years, he has steadily advanced through the ranks:
- 2004 – Promoted to corporal
- 2008 – Promoted to sergeant, serving in various assignments, including development and implementation of the department’s Body Worn Camera program
- 2014 – Promoted to lieutenant, serving as Watch Commander and in the Patrol, Criminal Investigations, and Training divisions
- 2020 – Promoted to captain, overseeing assignments within Special Operations, Training, and Vice and Narcotics divisions
- 2024 – Promoted to assistant chief, serving as Bureau Commander of the Management Bureau
In his current leadership role, Schultheis oversees the Resource Management Division, Training Division, Office of Community Engagement, Fiscal Management, and Information and Technology.
Service, Training, and Recognition
Schultheis served as the lead instructor for the Greensboro Police Academy from 2006 through 2025, playing a significant role in officer training and department development.
He earned an Advanced Law Enforcement Certificate in 2014 and has received several departmental honors, including:
- Meritorious Conduct Bar (2014)
- Lifesaving Medal (2004)
The City has not yet announced a timeline for selecting a permanent police chief. Schultheis will lead the department during the transition period.
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