Chapel Hill police join initiative to hire more female officers

Women currently make up just 12% of sworn officers and 3% of police leadership, according to organizers of the 30x30 Initiative.

More than 160 agencies have now signed on.

The Chapel Hill Police Department is the latest to sign the pledge. The department has 102 officers and 14 vacancies. Of the 88 officers, there are only 10 women employed.

Celisa Lehew, who has worked at the Chapel Hill Police Department for 18 years and been Assistant Chief for the last four, says she's committed to increasing the number of women in the department.

"Women are just that important representation in our law enforcement communities, and women on police forces lead to stronger community outcomes," Lehew said. "I've had just this awesome experience in that I've been able to experience different positions and divisions throughout the police department."

Lehew says she loves her work as much today as the very first day she walked through the door.

The National Association of Women Law Enforcement Executives is a partner agency for 30x30.

Lieutenant Jennifer Charleston has worked at the Springfield, Missouri Police Department since 2000. She credits other women in leadership for lifting her up along the way.

Charleston says women are particularly suited for careers in policing.

"One of our strengths as women in law enforcement is absolutely our communication. We're more empathetic when we're dealing with our victims," Charleston said.

Agencies must affirm zero tolerance for discriminatory practices or harassment, and ensure there is a designated space for nursing mothers. Agencies will also need to ensure the hiring managers and members of promotional panel receive bias training.

Agencies that sign the pledge will share their progress with the 30x30 initiative every six months.

Other groups in the Triangle that are participating include Durham, Garner, and Fayetteville.

Chapel Hill PD emphasizes that they are hiring not only new recruit, but also hiring laterally.