Eddie M. Buffaloe, Jr., the former North Carolina Department of Public Safety Secretary, is slated to soon take on the role of Deputy Chief for the Administrative Services Division of the Raleigh Police Department. With a career spanning over three decades, Buffaloe has worn numerous hats, including acting as city manager and director of the Elizabeth City Department of Public Safety, taking charge as a police chief, and dedicating tens years to the North Carolina National Guard.
His tenure as secretary allowed him to thoroughly oversee a robust team in emergency management and to actively navigate the demanding whirlwind of Hurricane Helene in 2024. According to a published announcement by the City of Raleigh, Raleigh City Manager Marchell Adams-David expressed that they are "thrilled to welcome a longtime partner with an extensive background in law enforcement, a proven understanding of emergency management, and a strong commitment to community connections to enhance Raleigh’s law enforcement efforts."
Within his new role, Buffaloe will be tasked to oversee various elements of internal policing standards and administrative affairs, along with supporting the critical operations of the department's various divisions. He will also actively contribute to the recent initiative of the Community Impact and Engagement Division. Raleigh Police Chief Rico Boyce highlighted the benefits of Buffaloe's extensive experience, saying in a statement obtained by the City of Raleigh that "Deputy Chief Buffaloe brings a wealth of experience to RPD that will benefit Raleigh residents and the entire community."
Buffaloe himself expressed a mixture of gratitude and eagerness about his upcoming position as he transitions from state to local service. "Serving the people of North Carolina has been the honor of a lifetime. Under the leadership of Governor Stein and former Governor Cooper, I’ve grown, learned, and had the privilege of leading an extraordinary team of public servants whose dedication inspired me every day," he told the City of Raleigh. "As I retire from state service, my gratitude runs deep, and while one chapter closes, another begins. I’m thrilled to continue my commitment to public safety in a new capacity, joining the state’s premier police department in the country, the Raleigh Police Department, as Deputy Chief."
Buffaloe's extensive career and dedication to public service will undeniably bring a strategic edge as he steps into his role with the Raleigh Police Department starting January 5, 2026.
