Knoxville Police Department Assistant Chief David Powell will lead the department during the one-month suspension of Chief Paul Noel for “inappropriately texting” a subordinate.
Powell is a 28‑year veteran of the Knoxville Police Department, having joined the department in 1998, according to his official KPD bio. He was promoted to assistant chief in March 2024.
“Chief Powell has proven to be an invaluable member of our Command Staff,” Noel said in 2024, after promoting Powell as the department's second-in-command. “We have multiple ongoing projects and are pushing a lot of change. Chief Powell has led a lot of those efforts, and will continue to do so in his new position. I have no doubt he will thrive and help us accomplish our goal of becoming
the premier law enforcement agency in the region.”
Noel previously had promoted Powell to deputy chief in October 2022. Before that, Powell served as both the captain and acting deputy chief over the Management Services Bureau. He also served as the Field Operations Bureau’s West District Commander.
Knoxville Mayor Indya Kincannon suspended Noel Aug. 6 following an independent investigation that revealed Noel inappropriately texted with a subordinate officer, who is a woman.
“I will work relentlessly to earn the trust of the mayor and the community,” Noel said at a news conference Aug. 6, adding he took full responsibility for his actions. “It’s going to take time."
Devarrick Turner is a trending news reporter. Email devarrick.turner@knoxnews.com.
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This article originally appeared on Knoxville News Sentinel: Meet KPD Assistant Chief David Powell, taking over for Chief Paul Noel
