Cornelius Police Chief announces retirement

CORNELIUS, N.C. – Cornelius Police Chief David Baucom is retiring after more than three decades in law enforcement. On Monday, Baucom announced his retirement and said he will step down December 31, 2026.

He has served the Cornelius community for nearly 28 years, rising through every rank from patrol officer to Chief in 2022.

During his tenure as Chief, Baucom spearheaded the creation of a mental health co-responder program and oversaw the ongoing, active investigation into the high-profile disappearance of Madalina Cojocari.

Town officials say they will announce plans next week regarding the police department’s future leadership