Charlotte, NC, August 9, 2025
News Summary
The Charlotte community honored the legacy of Veronica ‘Vicki’ Foster, a former assistant chief of the CMPD, during a heartfelt funeral service. Foster, who passed away after a year-long illness, was recognized for her nearly three-decade career in law enforcement, pioneering as the highest-ranking female officer in the department’s history. The service was marked by an outpouring of love and respect as attendees reflected on her dedication to public service and her significant contributions to community safety.
Charlotte community members gathered on August 8, 2025, to honor the legacy of former assistant chief of the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD), Veronica “Vicki” Foster, during a heartfelt funeral service. Foster passed away on July 25, at the age of 56 following a year-long battle with illness.
The viewing for Vicki Foster was held from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at First Baptist Church in Uptown Charlotte, with the funeral service beginning promptly at 11 a.m. Following the service, she was entombed at Gethsemane Cemetery and Memorial Gardens in northeast Charlotte.
Vicki Foster had an illustrious career spanning nearly three decades with the CMPD, culminating in her role as assistant police chief, a position she held until her retirement in January 2020. She made history as the highest-ranking female officer in the department’s history, a trailblazer who began her journey in law enforcement as a patrol officer in 1991.
Throughout her career, Foster advanced through the ranks, achieving positions of sergeant, captain, major, deputy chief, and ultimately assistant chief. Her dedication, leadership qualities, and commitment to community safety were widely recognized, with many tributes from colleagues and community leaders highlighting her significant contributions.
Foster was also noted for her strong relationships with fellow officers and her active involvement in various community charitable organizations. Her work extended beyond law enforcement, as she was a vocal advocate for mental health awareness, successfully implementing Mental Health First Aid training throughout the CMPD.
She earned the Outstanding Volunteer Award from the American Cancer Society for her commitment as a Road to Recovery driver, helping transport cancer patients to their treatments. Additionally, Foster played a vital role in developing initiatives aimed at enhancing community safety, such as anti-crime programs and firearm awareness campaigns.
Current CMPD Chief Johnny Jennings expressed deep sorrow over her passing, describing her as a dear friend and an exceptional leader whose impact on the community would be profoundly missed. Even after her retirement, Foster continued to be recognized for her dedicated service to law enforcement and her efforts toward achieving equity within the police department.
The community’s outpouring of love and respect for Foster was evident during the ceremony, as attendees reflected on her lasting legacy, highlighting her exceptional dedication to public service and law enforcement.
FAQ
What was Vicki Foster’s role in the CMPD?
Vicki Foster served as the assistant chief of the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department, making her the highest-ranking female officer in the department’s history.
When did Vicki Foster pass away?
Vicki Foster passed away on July 25, 2025, after battling an illness for a year.
What initiatives did Vicki Foster support during her career?
She was known for her efforts in mental health awareness, anti-crime programs, and firearm safety campaigns, among other community safety initiatives.
How long did Vicki Foster serve in law enforcement?
Vicki Foster served for 29 years in law enforcement before her retirement in January 2020.
Where was Vicki Foster’s funeral held?
The funeral service was held at First Baptist Church in Uptown Charlotte.
Key Features of Vicki Foster’s Career
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Years of Service | 29 years with CMPD |
| Highest Rank | Assistant Chief |
| Awards | Outstanding Volunteer Award from American Cancer Society |
| Community Involvement | Volunteer for cancer patient transportation, mental health advocate |
| Initiatives Developed | Anti-crime programs, firearm awareness campaigns |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Remembering Vicki Foster: A Trailblazer in Charlotte’s Police Force
Police Officer Involved Shootings Under Investigation in Charlotte
Charlotte Police Officer Shot During Domestic Disturbance Response
Vote of No Confidence Against Charlotte Police Chief
Additional Resources
- QC News: Vicki Foster Laid to Rest
- Wikipedia: Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department
- WBTV: Funeral for Former Assistant Chief
- Google Search: Vicki Foster CMPD
- WSOC TV: Community Says Farewell to Vicki Foster
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Vicki Foster
- WCNC: Service Honoring Vicki Foster
- Google News: Vicki Foster
- Charlotte Observer: Vicki Foster
- WSOC TV: Highest Ranking Female Officer Vicki Foster Dies
Author: HERE Charlotte
The CHARLOTTE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECharlotte.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Lovin' Life Music Festival, Charlotte Pride festival, and major sporting tournaments at Bank of America Stadium. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance and Foundation for the Carolinas, plus leading businesses in finance and entertainment that power the local economy such as Bank of America and NASCAR. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HEREGreensboro.com, HERERaleigh.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
