Hickory Police Department promotes new Deputy Chief and Captain

The Hickory Police Department (HPD) is proud to announce the promotion of two veteran members of the department. 

On Jan. 4, 2026, Captain Jeff Young was promoted to Deputy Chief of Police and Lieutenant Justin Levey was promoted to Captain and Division Commander of HPD’s Support Services Division. 

“Deputy Chief Young and Captain Levey have each built a legacy of exceptional service, proving their dedication and commitment to both this department and the citizens we serve,” Hickory Police Chief Bryan Adams said. “I look forward to watching them thrive in these new positions as they provide the forward-thinking leadership necessary to guide our agency into the future.” 

Deputy Chief Jeff Young began his career at Hickory Police Department in December of 1999 after serving in the United States Marine Corps. Young was born in Catawba County and graduated from Hickory High School. 

After serving his country in the United States Marines, he continued his education at Lees-McRae College earning his Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice. Captain Young is a graduate of the North Carolina Justice Academy’s Management Development Program and 259th Session of the FBI National Academy. 

Young has served in numerous positions with the police department including Patrol Officer, Criminal Investigator, Sergeant of Special Investigations, Sergeant of the Street Crimes Unit, Commander of Charles PACT, Commander of Baker PACT, Division Commander of the Patrol Division, Division Commander of the Support Services Division, Division Commander of the Criminal Investigations Division and most recently as the Division Commander overseeing accreditation and special projects.

 
Deputy Chief Jeff Young

Captain Justin Levey began his career at Hickory Police Department in August of 2008 after serving in the United States Marine Corps. Levey has served in numerous positions with the police department including Patrol Officer in David PACT, Criminal Investigator, Sergeant of Baker PACT, Training and Recruitment Sergeant, David PACT Commander, Community Services Commander and now serves as Support Services Division Commander. 

Levey earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Economic Crime Investigation at Utica University and a Master of Science in Law Enforcement Administration at Columbia College. Levey is also a graduate of North Carolina State University Law Enforcement Executive Program (LEEP). 

When away from work, Levey values spending time with his family and being physically active.

Captain Justin Levey