Kinston has installed its first permanent police chief since 2021. Keith Goyette first joined the Kinston Police department in 2001. He became interim police chief in October and was given the position officially on February 3.
The appointment comes as the city has turned its attention more directly toward crime and public safety. Last month, the city held its first Crime Intervention Task Force meeting. The task force was created by Mayor Don Hardy in response to an increase in crime late last year.
Goyette said at his appointment that the biggest issue facing Kinston’s Police Department is recruiting.
