Asheville Appointed Jacquelyn Stepp Permanent Police Chief
City Manager D.K. Wesley has selected the veteran officer to lead the Asheville Police Department permanently.
Updated on Sept. 24, 2026 in People
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The City of Asheville announced on September 24, 2026, that Jacquelyn Stepp has been appointed as the permanent police chief of the Asheville Police Department. Stepp, who served as interim chief since November 2025, brings over 20 years of experience to the role.
Why it matters
The appointment concludes a competitive selection process focused on identifying a leader with the experience and vision necessary to guide the department. Stepp's deep history within the agency is expected to provide stability for the force and the local community.
Jacquelyn Stepp has dedicated more than 20 years to the Asheville Police Department. She previously served as the first female deputy chief in the department's history.
The players
Jacquelyn Stepp
She is the newly appointed permanent police chief of the Asheville Police Department with over two decades of experience.
D.K. Wesley
As the City Manager of Asheville, he oversaw the competitive process to select the new police chief.
The details
City Manager D.K. Wesley chose Stepp following a competitive selection process that weighed her decades of departmental service and leadership capabilities. Stepp originally joined the Asheville Police Department as a patrol officer in 2005.
Timeline
2005: Jacquelyn Stepp began her career as a patrol officer.
October 2023: Stepp became the department's first female deputy chief.
November 2025: Stepp was named the interim police chief.
September 24, 2026: The city announced the permanent appointment of Stepp.
Market Landscape
This appointment follows a broader pattern of municipalities prioritizing internal candidates with long institutional knowledge to fill top law enforcement vacancies. The selection reflects a trend toward favoring stability and tenure during executive transitions in public safety sectors.
Residents can expect continuity in police leadership and departmental operations following the transition of Stepp from interim to permanent chief. This move signals a strategic commitment to established internal leadership for local public safety oversight.
The takeaway
Stepp’s career progression from a patrol officer to chief illustrates the impact of long-term departmental commitment on internal advancement. The city’s decision underscores a preference for leadership candidates who possess a deep, lived understanding of the local agency’s culture.
Further reading
For more information on municipal leadership transitions, visit Asheville People.
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