Special for IFN

The Statesville Police Department has hired Stephanie Adkins as the city’s first police attorney.

Adkins provides a comprehensive legal background that will serve as an invaluable asset to SPD’s mission of law enforcement excellence. She joins the department with extensive prosecutorial experience, having served as an assistant district attorney in North Carolina and deputy county attorney in Maricopa County, Arizona, and previously served in the Tennessee District Attorney’s Office.

“Applying and ultimately accepting the role of police advocate for SPD was an easy decision for me,” Adkins said. “While I have truly enjoyed my years prosecuting criminal cases, this role has been a unique opportunity to continue to support law enforcement and my passion for public service, as well as expand my legal knowledge by working directly with officers and staff of command from the front. Ending. I am excited to work with SPD to build this position from the ground up and ensure it serves a positive and productive purpose for both the department and the community.”

Her hiring reflects SPD’s commitment to ensuring thorough, legally sound practices and increased accountability.

As SPD’s first police attorney, Adkins will provide specialized legal advice to Chief David Onley and police staff, addressing issues ranging from criminal law and investigative procedures to the sufficiency of evidence for court cases. She will be responsible for reviewing and developing department policies, ensuring they meet legal standards and accreditation requirements. Her duties also include providing continuing legal training for officers, advising on procedural matters, coordinating legal representation and assisting in civil litigation and public nuisance cases. This role reinforces SPD’s dedication to upholding the highest standards of law enforcement.

“Stephanie’s experience in criminal justice and her dedication to public service make her a perfect fit for our department,” said Chief Onley. “Her role will strengthen our legal framework and support our officers in making informed and responsible decisions. We are excited to see the positive impact he will bring to the department and the community.”

In addition to his role in direct legal counsel, Adkins will work with the city attorney, provide guidance on fair employment practices and represent the city in civil rights litigation. Her responsibilities extend to coordinating training materials on new case law and legislative changes, developing resources for departmental staff, and providing on-call legal advice as needed. Adkins will also serve as a departmental representative on various boards and commissions, where her participation will enhance SPD’s leadership in law enforcement standards.