Captain Christopher Bowen Retires After 30 Years of Dedicated Service

His mother was shocked, and his father quickly told him never to share news like that again without running it through him first. From that moment on, Bowen knew he was meant for this work.

When reflecting on nearly three decades with SPD, he says his years as a School Resource Officer stand out as some of his most meaningful. Without children of his own, working with students each day became incredibly special to him, and he hopes he made a positive difference in their lives.

Over the years, Bowen has watched the department transform. When he started, four officers shared a single patrol car, his annual salary was just over $20,000, and most equipment was used and passed down. Training was considered a privilege. Today, the department has grown in its staffing, equipment, training opportunities, policies, and technology – changes he has witnessed firsthand and is proud to have been part of.

What Bowen will miss most in retirement is the people. He has spent the majority of his life with SPD and formed lifelong friendships along the way. He describes his coworkers as some of the finest people he has ever known - people willing to risk their lives for him, just as he would for them. What he won’t miss are the difficult moments that come with the profession, from challenging calls to recent staffing struggles.

Bowen’s career is also full of humorous and unforgettable stories. He’ll never forget nearly shooting a U.S. Marshal on the interstate, then later writing him a ticket. He once got run over by half of a double-wide home and made the mistake of telling Chief Hampton he planned to go fishing on a day he received time off for wrecking a car. And, as he says, “the list goes on and on.”

As he prepares for retirement, Bowen is looking forward to spending more time outdoors. Hunting and fishing are his therapy, and he’s ready to get back to the woods. He also has long-overdue projects at home and on the family farm. Most importantly, he’s excited to spend more time with his wife, who has supported him through every chapter of his career.

To new officers just starting out, Bowen’s advice is simple and heartfelt: find yourself, strive to do your best, and never forget the oath you took. He encourages officers to be proud of who they are, stay positive, avoid getting caught up in money or material things, and always maintain an outlet outside the job. He also stresses the importance of family - say “I love you” before you leave and give them a hug when you return home.

Asked if his coworkers could give him a “Most Likely To…” award, Bowen says he hopes it would reflect that he was helpful and dependable. He hopes those around him know he always tried his best and that he was there for them.

As he steps into this next chapter, Bowen says it has been a pleasure to work at SPD. It hasn’t always been easy, but he is grateful for the many blessings and experiences the job has brought him. He looks forward to seeing who steps into his roles.

The Statesville Police Department and the City of Statesville extend their deepest appreciation to Captain Christopher Bowen for his years of service, leadership, and unwavering commitment to the community. We wish him all the best in retirement and thank him for a career defined by dedication and heart.