Protect & Serve: The Story of Small-Town Police Work

This semester, I had the privilege of following Captain White (Chip) and Lieutenant Chelenza (Nick), two officers from the Hillsborough Police Department. Our adventures together over the past few months entailed shadowing days in the office, attending events the PD put on for their community, a ride-along patrolling the town, eating delicious barbecue, and exploring favorite local spots in Hillsborough. This story dives into what it means to be a police officer in a small town, a place Chip and Nick have called home for most of their lives.

Along the way, I came to understand how “serving the community” can take on a broader meaning. Beyond their work on the force, Chip and Nick share a passion for cooking. Using their signature rub, they host barbecues for the precinct, their families, and the wider Hillsborough community, raising money for charities and fellow first responders in need. These gatherings reflect a deeper commitment–one rooted in not only active duty, but in connection, care, generosity, and a desire to bring joy to the people around them.

I felt welcomed with such open arms by everyone in the Hillsborough PD, and I’m so grateful for the opportunity to hear and share their story. Thank you so much to Chip and Nick for making this experience possible!