Cornelius Police Chief David Baucom to Retire Dec. 31
After more than three decades in law enforcement and nearly 28 years with the Cornelius Police Department, Police Chief David Baucom will retire Dec. 31.
Baucom’s career with the department began April 19, 1999. He rose through the ranks from master police officer to sergeant, lieutenant, captain and major before being appointed chief in 2022.
Baucom led the department through significant growth and several high-profile challenges during his four years at the helm. Among the most prominent was the ongoing investigation into the disappearance of Madalina Cojocari. It began weeks before Baucom became chief and the investigation remains active.
During his tenure, the department expanded its K-9 unit, created a Crime Reduction Unit and established a Co-Responder Program that pairs law enforcement resources with mental health support for people experiencing a mental health crisis.
Baucom worked with Mecklenburg County to establish the Joshua Murray Boating Safety and Education Center, secured funding for the co-responder program through the town and the North Carolina Governor’s Crime Commission, and oversaw the purchase of an emergency response vessel.
He also commanded the Cornelius Police Department’s SWAT team for more than eight years and led efforts to modernize the department’s public-facing identity, including new graphics and vehicle markings. Most recently, he advocated for higher police pay to help fill vacancies among officers.
“While retirement is bittersweet, I am looking forward to spending time with my family and starting the next chapter of my life,” Baucom said. “Service to others has been my focus throughout my career, and I will continue to serve others in some capacity as long as I am able.”
Baucom began his law enforcement career with the Mecklenburg County Sheriff’s Office in 1992, working in the jail, fugitive and transport division and domestic violence unit.
Town Manager Andrew Grant praised Baucom’s leadership and commitment to the department, saying he raised the bar on community service.
“CPD is second to none and I’m honored to have had the opportunity to work with Chief Baucom not only as chief, but during all the years that he rose from the rank of patrol officer. I wish the chief a happy and well-deserved retirement,” Grant said.
Baucom and his wife, Karen, were married in 1999 and have two children.
“The Town of Cornelius and the residents who live here have been phenomenal to work with and for,” Baucom said. “The future of the town and police department is bright, and I look forward to seeing what the future holds.”
Baucom will remain chief through Dec. 31. The Town of Cornelius said it will announce plans regarding future leadership next week. Sources said a promotion will come from within the department.
