BENSON – Former Benson police chief Kenneth Edward died Thursday at his home. He was 54.
Coming from the Sampson County Sheriff’s Department, Kenneth began his career in Benson in 1996. A little more than a year later, he was promoted to Captain. A few years after that he was Chief of Police.
According to the Town of Benson Facebook page, he was a familiar face to many in town. He was always ready for a conversation or interaction with the people he served and it was these traits that led him to focus on a “community policing” style as head of Benson’s police department.
Kenneth Edwards officially retired in June of 2020.
“Kenneth was my mentor, we were partners at work, and most importantly he was my friend,” said current Police Chief Greg Percy. “He did things for and with me outside of work and while I have any number of work-related memories to draw on, it’s the personal ones that I’ll remember the most. He was a great officer and Chief, but an even better friend and he will be sorely missed.”
Funeral arrangements for Kenneth Edwards will be held on Saturday, July 13 at Skinner & Smith Funeral Home, 905 Erwin Road, Dunn, NC. Visitation will be at 2:00pm with the service to follow at 3:00pm.
