Hickory's own Bryan Adams is set to quickly step into the position of Chief of Police following an announcement that he will be promoted from his current role as Deputy Chief. The Hickory Police Department veteran of 27 years will assume his new role come July 1, following the retirement of the current Police Chief Reed Baer. According to the City of Hickory's statement, City Manager Warren Wood praised Adams' skill set and leadership qualities that positioned him as the ideal candidate for the top job, emphasizing his "dedication, wisdom, and integrity."
Maj. Adams began his career with the HPD as a Patrol Officer in 1998 and rapidly rose through the ranks, serving in a variety of roles including Vice/Narcotics Unit Supervisor and Lieutenant in Criminal Investigations, before earning the position of Deputy Chief in May 2023. He also boasts a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Western Carolina University and is an alumnus of the FBI National Academy. Adams has also been a steadfast fixture in the Hickory community, participating in local mentorship and leadership programs, and engaging in efforts toward racial justice and reconciliation.
Mayor Hank Guess shares personal insights in endorsing Adams, stating, "Bryan grew up in Hickory, and having worked alongside him at the police department, I know he fully understands the community policing model followed by HPD." He also reflects on the Hickory Police Department's history of developing leaders, evidenced by the number of officers who have gone on to become chiefs in other jurisdictions—a point also echoed by City Manager Warren Wood in his commendations of HPD's legacy, as per the City of Hickory.
In response to the promotion, Adams expressed his deep sense of honor and excitement about his new role. "I am truly blessed and deeply honored to get to serve in this new role as the Chief of Police," Adams told the City of Hickory. Wood also has high expectations for Adams to effectively bridge into his new responsibilities, noting his strong reputation and community connections as assets that will perpetuate the department's legacy of excellence in policing.
