WILMINGTON — The City of Wilmington City Council has named Donny Williams Chief of Police for the Wilmington Police Department. Williams has been serving as interim chief since the previous chief, Ralph Evangelous, left.
Since that time, Williams has faced a number of hurdles — from dealing with Covid-19 unrest and the pandemic — to the ongoing protests regarding police in the city. In fact, naming Williams as Police Chief was one of the demands protestors made in a petition to the city.
“Chief Williams is a native Wilmingtonian and former resident of the city’s Northside. He has displayed great competence in a climate of social uncertainty during his time as Interim Chief and he possesses the trust and the respect of his officers as well as our community’s trust,” according to the petition.
The Wilmington City Council made the motion Tuesday night after a closed session of more than one hour.
Williams has worked for the police department for nearly three decades and served in several roles over the last years.
For the past several months, Williams has demonstrated his ability to lead the police department, Mayor Bill Saffo said.
“I am overjoyed and humbled that our council has put their trust in me,” Williams said.
A second personnel matter was discussed during the closed session but no action was taken. The meeting, however, will remain open until Wednesday when another announcement will likely be made, according to Saffo.
