WRIGHTSVILLE BEACH — Wrightsville Beach Police Chief Jason Bishop will retire March 1, 2027, following more than 28 years of service with the Wrightsville Beach Police Department.
Bishop joined the department in 1998 and advanced through the ranks, serving as sergeant and captain before assuming the role of interim police chief in July 2024. He took over from David Squires, who was abruptly fired in 2024 in a turbulent period where the town didn’t have a police chief, fire chief or town manager. Squires is now suing the town for wrongful termination.
Bishop was appointed as police chief in January 2025.
“Serving as Chief has been a privilege, and I am grateful for the trust placed in me throughout my time in this role,” Bishop said in a press release. “I sincerely appreciate the continued support of the Board of Aldermen, the Town Manager, and the residents of Wrightsville Beach. As I look toward the next chapter of my life, I remain committed to serving the Town and supporting the men and women of this department through the remainder of my service. Wrightsville Beach has been a part of my life long before my career in law enforcement, and I am thankful for the opportunity to give back to a community that has given so much to me.”
Throughout his career, Bishop has received numerous recognitions, including the department’s Officer of the Year award in 2007 and 2020, the New Hanover County District Attorney’s Service Above Self Award in 2015, and the department’s Medal of Valor and Lifesaving Award in 2015. He earned his bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and criminology from the University of Mount Olive.
According to the town, the search for the department’s next police chief will begin in November 2026.
“The police chief serves as a vital member of the Town’s leadership team, working closely with the Board of Aldermen, Town Manager, and department heads to maintain the high standards of public safety that Wrightsville Beach residents and visitors expect,” Town Manager Haynes Brigman said in a press release.
The town says its recruitment will emphasize professional and accountable policing, employee development, strong community relationships, and collaboration with other town departments and public safety partners.
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