KANNAPOLIS
The Kannapolis Police Department recently hosted its annual awards ceremony, recognizing officers and staff members for their outstanding service, leadership, and dedication to their community. Several members of the department were presented with top departmental honors in recognition of their exceptional performance, commitment to public safety, and support of their fellow officers and residents of the city of Kannapolis.
Roger Dale Carter Memorial Service Award
Investigator Glenn Tingen was presented with the Roger Dale Carter Memorial Service Award, given in memory of Kannapolis Police Officer Carter, who died in the line of duty on Dec. 31, 1993.
This award is presented annually to a sworn officer who has shown exceptional service to residents and peers and whose character and integrity exemplifies the highest ideals of law enforcement.
Tingen is known throughout the department for his willingness to assist fellow officers whenever needed. His strong work ethic, humility, and unwavering integrity have earned him the respect of peers, supervisors, and members of the community alike. Tingen has built a reputation for honesty, professionalism and dedication that reflects the highest standards of law enforcement and the core values of the Kannapolis Police Department.
He joined the Kannapolis Police Department in 2019 and has advanced through several key leadership and investigative roles, including field training officer, Crisis Negotiation Team member, and investigator in the Felony Investigations Unit. Throughout his career, he has been recognized with multiple commendations for exemplary service, including a Life Saving Award and recognition for his work during Hurricane Helene. He earned the rank of Master Police Officer in 2026 and holds an Intermediate Law Enforcement Certificate. He is a graduate of Western Carolina University.
Norma C. Howard Memorial Service Award
Park Ranger Charles "Chuck" Irvin was awarded the Norma C. Howard Memorial Service Award. Norma Howard was the first female and first full-time civilian police employee in Kannapolis and was instrumental in establishing the records management system. This award is presented annually to a civilian police department employee who conducts both their personal and professional lives in a manner that is consistent with the department's values and code of ethics.
Irvin is known for his positive attitude, contagious personality, and strong commitment to public service. He consistently sets an example for others through his professionalism, integrity, honesty and interpersonal skills. Irvin is dedicated to serving the citizens of Kannapolis and strives to build meaningful, personal connections with the community through his daily interactions.
He joined the Kannapolis Police Department in 1995, serving as a part-time telecommunicator until 2000. He returned to the department in 2024 as a park ranger. A graduate of Kannapolis City Schools and Basic Law Enforcement Training (BLET), Irvin brings more than 30 years of law enforcement experience, including a distinguished career with the N.C. Division of Motor Vehicles.
Rookie of the Year
Officer Caleb Tate was presented with the Rookie of the Year Award. The Rookie of the Year Award is presented annually to a sworn or civilian employee who has been employed with the Police Department for less than three years, and who demonstrates a strong work ethic, positive attitude, and willingness to work cooperatively. Officer Tate’s peers refer to him as a proactive and dependable officer who is trusted to assist with special operations and is committed to continually improving his knowledge and skills through ongoing training.
Tate joined the Kannapolis Police Department in 2024. In 2025, Tate received the department’s highest honor, the Medal of Valor, for his courage and decisive actions during a critical incident earlier that year. A graduate of Eastern Alamance High School, Tate earned a bachelor ’s degree in criminal justice and political science from UNC Charlotte.
Traffic Safety Award
Sgt. Keith Benfield was presented with the Traffic Safety Award. This award is presented annually to the sworn employee who has made a great impact in improving highway and traffic safety in Kannapolis.
Benfield is recognized for his innovative thinking, servant leadership, and unwavering commitment to professional growth and development. Colleagues praise his positive attitude and dedication to enhancing public safety through proactive traffic enforcement and traffic safety initiatives that help keep the Kannapolis community safe.
Benfield began his career with the Kannapolis Police Department in 2017 as a Patrol Officer and currently supervises the Traffic Safety & Enforcement Unit. Throughout his career, he has served in several specialized roles, including field training officer, UAS (drone) operator, and crisis negotiator with the agency’s Special Response Team.
Benfield has received two Life Saving Awards and an Individual Commendation for his service during Hurricane Helene. He holds an Intermediate Law Enforcement Certificate and a General Instructor Certificate. He is a graduate of South Rowan High School and Rowan-Cabarrus Community College.
Team Above Self Award
Master Police Officer Jonathan Lambert was awarded the Team Above Self Award. This award is presented to the officer who displays a high level of teamwork and who consistently puts the needs of the agency, squad, team and shift ahead of their own needs. Lambert is known for his positive attitude, resilience, and unwavering dedication to both his fellow officers and the citizens of Kannapolis.
Lambert joined the Kannapolis Police Department in 2020 and currently serves as a K-9 handler with his partner, Roscoe. During his career, Lambert has served as a field training officer and a field force (CERT) operator. Lambert earned the designation of Master Police Officer in 2026. He has received both a Police Star and an Individual Commendation for his dedicated service. He holds an Intermediate Law Enforcement Certificate. He is a graduate of South Rowan High School and Western Carolina University.
Leadership Award
Sgt. Travis Furr was awarded the Leadership Award. This award is presented annually to the supervisor, either sworn or civilian, who best displays the leadership traits that help to further the mission of the department.
Furr is known throughout the department for his technical expertise, collaborative approach, and willingness to mentor others and help them develop new skills. His colleagues admire his consistently positive attitude and acknowledge the lasting impact he has made on those around him.
Furr has been with the Kan -napolis Police Department since August 1998. In 2008, Furr was promoted to the rank of sergeant. Throughout his career, he has received numerous honors and recognitions, including the Roger Dale Carter Memorial Service Award, the Chief’s Award and the Police Star.
Furr also received the department’s 25-Year Safe Driving Award in 2024. He holds an Advanced Law Enforcement Certification from the North Carolina Criminal Justice Education and Training Standards Commission. A graduate of Mount Pleasant High School, Furr earned associate degrees from Haywood and Rowan-Cabarrus Community Colleges and a Bachelor of Science degree from Western Carolina University.
