KANNAPOLIS, N.C. — Kannapolis Police Chief Chris Hill has announced the promotion of Jennifer Clarke to deputy police chief, marking another milestone in her nearly two-decade career with the department.
In her new role, Clarke will oversee the operations of the department’s three bureaus and assist with implementing departmental policies, operational plans and strategic initiatives.
Clarke began her law enforcement career with the Kannapolis Police Department in 2007 as a patrol officer. Over the years, she has served in several leadership positions within the Patrol and Criminal Investigation divisions.
Her dedication to law enforcement has earned her multiple recognitions, including a Police Commendation in 2008 and a Unit Commendation in 2014.
Clarke advanced through the department’s ranks, earning a promotion to sergeant in 2016 and lieutenant in 2017. She was promoted to captain in 2021.
During her time as captain, Clarke gained extensive leadership experience overseeing the Special Operations Bureau, Field Operations Bureau and Support Services Bureau.
In addition to her administrative and operational responsibilities, Clarke serves as one of the department’s certified polygraph examiners.
A native of western North Carolina, Clarke graduated from Smoky Mountain High School in Sylva. She earned an associate degree in criminal justice technology from Southwestern Community College and a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Western Carolina University.
She also holds an Advanced Law Enforcement Certificate from the North Carolina Criminal Justice Education and Training Standards Commission.
Clarke is married to Kara, and the couple has two daughters, Bowen and Beckett. She is the daughter of Pam McMahan Hyatt and Billy Hyatt.
Her promotion places her in a senior leadership position within the Kannapolis Police Department, where she will help direct daily operations and support the department’s public safety priorities.
