Who is Who
Eric Swift is the Interim Chief of Police at the Fort Bragg Police Department, a former U.S. Marine, and a dedicated leadership mentor. With over two decades in law enforcement, he’s recognized for fostering integrity, community trust, and professional growth through faith-based mentorship and performance coaching initiatives nationwide.
A Life Guided by Purpose
When Eric Swift reflects on his decades of service, one guiding truth stands out: leadership is about leaving people better than you found them. From his early days in uniform to his current role as Interim Chief of Police at the Fort Bragg Police Department, his journey embodies resilience, compassion, and faith-driven purpose. Each chapter of his story reveals not just a man dedicated to public safety, but a leader determined to uplift others through mentorship and integrity.
Eric’s path has never been about titles or accolades. It has always been about service to his country, his community, and the next generation of leaders. Whether leading a department or mentoring youth, his philosophy remains grounded in humility and human connection.
Foundation – Service Rooted in Duty and Discipline
Eric’s story begins with his service in the United States Marine Corps, where discipline and honor first became cornerstones of his character. The military instilled in him a commitment to teamwork, courage, and mission-oriented leadership values that continue to shape his approach to law enforcement and community service today.
After completing his Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Government from HSU, Eric transitioned into public safety with a clear sense of purpose. His academic insight, combined with real-world experience, allowed him to understand not only the operational complexities of policing but also the social responsibilities it entails. These early foundations laid the groundwork for a career defined by leadership and personal accountability.
Ascent – A Career Defined by Leadership and Growth
Over the years, Eric has held pivotal roles across several respected agencies, each one deepening his understanding of leadership and community impact. His early years at the Santa Rosa Police Department saw him take on diverse assignments from Gang Detective to SWAT Team Member each requiring precision, courage, and collaboration. Later, he served with distinction as a Task Force Officer with the FBI Northbay Regional Gang Task Force, where his work underscored his commitment to justice and public safety.
Eric’s leadership journey advanced further at the Napa County Sheriff’s Office, where he held progressive roles including Sergeant, Patrol Lieutenant, and Administrative Lieutenant. His tenure there reflected not only operational excellence but also a deep dedication to developing people. By focusing on mentorship and professional growth, he cultivated a workplace culture grounded in accountability and respect.
In 2022, Eric joined the Clarke County Sheriff’s Office as Major of Administrative, Courts, Field, and Outreach Divisions, where his strategic vision and people-centered leadership played a vital role in enhancing departmental efficiency and morale. His management philosophy emphasized that effective policing is as much about empathy and community partnership as it is about enforcement.
Now, as Interim Chief of Police at the Fort Bragg Police Department, Eric continues to build on that foundation. His leadership approach reflects both strength and compassion qualities that have earned him respect across agencies and communities alike.
Impact – Beyond the Badge
Eric’s impact extends well beyond the realm of traditional law enforcement. In recent years, he has dedicated part of his energy to faith-based mentorship and youth development through NG3, a nonprofit organization committed to character building, community service, and positive change in the lives of high school students. As Monroe Area School Director for NG3, he helped shape young minds through service, leadership, and integrity, demonstrating that the most lasting influence often begins with personal example.
In addition, through his work with Performance Protocol as a Regional Advisor and Officer Performance Coach, Eric continues to mentor and empower law enforcement professionals nationwide. His focus on coaching and leadership development reinforces his belief that sustainable excellence in policing begins with emotional intelligence, purpose, and moral courage.
Reflecting on his journey, Eric shared in a recent post, “I feel truly blessed and honored to have served with the incredible men and women in the policing profession… I turn the page to a new chapter with awe and excitement about what lies ahead.” His gratitude and optimism echo through every stage of his career, inspiring others to lead with both heart and conviction.
Vision for the Future – Leading with Faith and Gratitude
As Eric looks ahead, his mission remains unwavering: to foster trust, build strong communities, and prepare the next generation of leaders for purposeful service. Whether guiding a police department or mentoring youth, he strives to ensure that leadership remains rooted in character and compassion.
To Eric, success is not measured by rank or recognition but by the positive difference made in the lives of others. His enduring message to colleagues and mentees alike is simple yet profound “Leadership is influence. Use it wisely, because every word, every act, and every decision can shape a future.”
Editorial Note
Eric Swift’s journey from Marine to Interim Police Chief reflects a life devoted to service, integrity, and growth. His leadership philosophy combines the strength of discipline with the warmth of empathy, setting a standard for modern law enforcement leaders. Through his continued work with NG3 and Performance Protocol, Eric exemplifies how true leadership transcends professional boundaries to create lasting community impact. His story reminds us that purpose-driven leadership not only protects but inspires proving that those who lead with faith and heart leave behind a legacy far greater than themselves.
