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Whiteville names Paul Rockenbach as police chief candidate; start pending background checks
Summary
Council heard that Paul Rockenbach has verbally accepted the town's police chief position pending background checks and certifications; anticipated start toward the end of February. Hiring followed an interview process with the mayor and Chief Ibar on the selection committee.
Town officials told the council that Paul Rockenbach has verbally accepted an offer to become Whiteville's next police chief, pending successful background checks and required screenings. Staff said Rockenbach is expected to begin work toward the end of February, contingent on completing required in-service training and certification paperwork.
Council materials presented Rockenbach's background: a bachelor's degree in business administration and a master's degree in criminal justice and homeland security from Liberty University; he is also enrolled in a doctoral program in criminal justice and homeland security. Staff said Rockenbach currently works for the U.S. Air Force Office of Special Investigations and has previously served as a police chief and in other law-enforcement roles.
Officials said the selection followed an interview process that included Mayor Michelle Cooper and Chief Ibar on the committee and that Rockenbach scored highest among seven candidates. Staff noted an interim appointment plan: another individual (referred to in the record as Knockingbaugh) will serve or be hired in a department-head capacity until Rockenbach completes required training and is sworn in.
No formal council vote on the hire is recorded in the transcript excerpt; staff presented the hiring status and timeline during the manager/staff reports.
