Charlotte, North Carolina, September 24, 2025
News Summary
Jonathan Thomas has been appointed as the new Chief of Police for Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools (CMS). With 28 years of law enforcement experience, Thomas aims to enhance school safety through proactive measures and improved communication. His previous work includes managing security for presidential visits and disaster responses, and he is dedicated to building trust within the school community.
Charlotte, North Carolina – Jonathan Thomas was officially sworn in as the new Chief of Police for Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools (CMS) on Tuesday. The swearing-in ceremony took place at 1 p.m. at the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Government Center.
Thomas brings 28 years of law enforcement experience to CMS, having previously served with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department in various capacities, including Special Operations and Emergency Management. His experience extends to managing security for presidential visits and disaster responses, notably during Hurricane Helene in western North Carolina.
In his new role, Thomas emphasized his goal of ensuring that CMS provides the safest environment possible for students and educators. He underscored the commitment of both police officers and retired law enforcement personnel to protecting the community, stating that building trust with students is of utmost importance. He expressed that seeing students light up when they see him in uniform is a significant motivator for his officers.
With the evolving landscape of school threats and challenges, Thomas aims to enhance daily safety measures. This includes conducting drills and regularly checking security protocols. CMS has recently implemented a new emergency response plan called “I Love U Guys,” designed to clarify protocols for staff and students, addressing previous feedback regarding confusion during emergencies.
Thomas noted the increasing seriousness of incidents such as student threats or fights, which underscores the necessity for a proactive approach in school safety. He is dedicated to ensuring transparency and improved communication concerning incidents that occur on campus. As Chief of Police, he will manage a team of 25 CMS officers.
Jonathan Thomas earned a degree in Criminal Justice from UNC Charlotte and holds an MBA from Pfeiffer University. Additionally, he has a Master’s Certification in Law Enforcement Administration from the University of Virginia and is a graduate of the FBI National Academy.
Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools is the second-largest school district in North Carolina, serving approximately 140,000 students.
Key Features of Jonathan Thomas’s Appointment
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Jonathan Thomas |
| Role | Chief of Police for Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools |
| Years of Experience | 28 years |
| Previous Department | Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department |
| Emergency Response Experience | Managed security for presidential visits, disaster response for Hurricane Helene |
| Team Size | 25 CMS officers |
| Emergency Response Plan | “I Love U Guys” |
| Students Served | Approximately 140,000 |
FAQ Section
What position was Jonathan Thomas sworn into?
Jonathan Thomas was officially sworn in as the new Chief of Police for Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools (CMS).
When was the swearing-in ceremony held?
The swearing-in ceremony took place at 1 p.m. at the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Government Center.
How much law enforcement experience does Thomas have?
Thomas brings 28 years of law enforcement experience to CMS.
What previous roles has Thomas held?
He previously served with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department in roles including Special Operations and Emergency Management.
What is the “I Love U Guys” plan?
CMS has implemented a new emergency response plan called “I Love U Guys,” aimed at clarifying protocols for staff and students after feedback on previous confusion.
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Additional Resources
- WCNC: New CMS Police Chief
- WCCB Charlotte: CMS Police Chief Interview
- NY1: CMS New Chief of Police
- QC News: Welcome New CMS Police Chief
- Hoodline: Gastonia K-9 Unit and CMPD Team Up
- Wikipedia: Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools
- Google Search: Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools police
- Google Scholar: School Police Chief
- Encyclopedia Britannica: School Safety
- Google News: Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools new chief
Author: HERE Charlotte
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