A familiar face in Raeford has a brand-new badge.

With his family and friends gathered in support at city hall Tuesday, Ray Crumpler of the Raeford Police Department took the oath to become the new Chief of Police. Chief Crumpler has served with the department for over 20 years, including seven years as assistant chief.

“It’s an honor. I appreciate the opportunity,” the new chief said after the ceremony.

Crumpler was the right choice for the job because of his years of experience with the city, and because he was recommended for the position by now-former Police Chief Marc Godwin, City Manager Dennis Baxley said. Godwin, who retired this month, spoke in favor of Crumpler at a city council meeting.

Mayor John K. McNeill III said he was glad to see Crumpler become police chief.

“We’re very pleased to have Ray with us. We look forward to his service in the years to come,” he said.

Chief Crumpler is originally from Raeford and is the oldest grandson of the late Frank Crumpler and his grandmother Dayne. He is the son of the late Kel Crumpler and his mother Cathy from Southern Pines. He is married to Rebecca and has three daughters, Kaylin, Currin and Maddie.

Crumpler started his career as a dispatcher with Hoke County and Raeford in 2000 under Al Schwarber and later under Jimmy Stewart. In 2003 he began his law enforcement career with the Raeford Police Department. Crumpler also worked at the Pinehurst Police Department while staying reserve with the City of Raeford.

In 2011, Chief Crumpler returned full time with Raeford as a Detective Sgt and then Asst. Chief in 2018.

 He is a member of Hillcrest Baptist Church and has previously served on boards and civic clubs such as The Kiwanis Club, the Hoke Reading Literacy Council, and the Children’s Developmental Center. He also serves as Assistant Fire Chief at the Stonewall Fire Department and has been a prior member of Pinehill, City of Raeford, Hillcrest, and the Hoke County Rescue Squad.