Charlotte will pay Police Chief Johnny Jennings $305,000 in a settlement that includes severance, legal fees, and pension-boosting bonuses.
The city released the agreement this week after State Auditor David Boliek urged Mayor Vi Lyles to make it public. Jennings will receive $175,000 to avoid suing the city over threats he received from former City Council member Tariq Bokhari during a dispute over officer safety gear.
Although no lawsuit was filed, the city will also pay Jennings $25,000 in legal expenses. These payments — totaling $200,000 — are not pension eligible.
However, the agreement includes a $14,016 retroactive raise for 2025 and a $45,699 retention bonus, both of which will count toward his pension. Jennings also receives 40 additional vacation days valued at $45,285.
His 2025 salary is $280,000. The $305,000 package includes a severance payment due by January 31, 2026, following his official retirement.
I have been humbled to serve this community for 33 years including the last 5 years as your police chief. Today, I’m announcing my retirement effective at the end of the year. Earlier this week, I had an extended conversation with Michael Graff of the Charlotte Optimist. If you… pic.twitter.com/rQD5fBFnfR
— Chief Jennings (@cmpdchief) May 25, 2025
