According to City Manager Ed Wyatt, Powell decided to step down in order to pursue his interest in seeking the position of Escambia County, Fla., sheriff.
Powell, a Wilson native, worked as a deputy with the Escambia County Sheriff's Department for more than 12 years.
In announcing Powell's resignation Monday, Wyatt said: "We greatly appreciate Chief Powell's professionalism and the fine work he has done for the department over the last two years. We certainly wish him well in his new endeavor.
"Under his leadership and during his tenure, the department received its new certification and continues to make progress with his community policing, and especially with the new security/police arrangement with Barton College."
Said Powell: "I have enjoyed the time I've spent here in Wilson.
"I have enjoyed getting to know many of the fine citizens of this city. But I have especially enjoyed working with such quality men and women who make up the Wilson Police Department."
Powell began his employment with the city of Wilson in October 2001, coming from Hartsfield, S.C., where he served as police chief for two years. Prior to working in Hartsfield, he was a special agent with the FBI.
Harry E. Tyson, Assistant City Manager -- Administration, has been appointed interim police chief, effective Feb. 2, 2004.
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