Building Trust for Wilson County
“Children are our community’s greatest asset. Therefore, enhancing school safety at the elementary level must be a top priority for the office of the sheriff. I plan to work collaboratively with the school board, school superintendent and senior leadership to ensure our school resource officers are prepared and trained to serve at both elementary and secondary levels. In addition, I plan to expand SRO coverage to include all elementary schools.”
-Chris Boykin, January 3, 2026
Chris Boykin is a lifelong resident of Wilson with more than three decades of service to Wilson County and surrounding communities.
Born on April 23, 1967, and raised in Sims, North Carolina, Chris graduated from James B. Hunt Jr. High School in 1985. He went on to attend Wilson Community College, earning an Associate’s Degree in Criminal Justice in 1987 - the first step in a career dedicated to public safety.
Chris began his law enforcement journey in October 1987 as an Emergency Communications Dispatcher for Wilson County. In 1988, he completed Basic Law Enforcement Training at Wilson Community College and joined the Wilson County Sheriff’s Office, where he would serve in a wide range of roles over many years.
Throughout his career, Chris rose through the ranks to Major, gaining extensive experience in leadership, operations, and community engagement. He later served with the Johnston County Sheriff’s Office as a Lieutenant before retiring from full-time law enforcement in 2015 after 27 years of service. Chris continues to serve today as a Reserve Deputy Sheriff with the Johnston County Sheriff’s Office.
Beyond his law enforcement career, Chris has remained deeply involved in civic life. He has served on Juvenile Crime Prevention Councils in both Wilson and Johnston counties and has contributed his time and leadership to numerous local boards which include Imagination Station, Wilson Education Partnership, and OIC of Wilson. State boards include the NC Locksmith Licensing Board. Through these organizations and others, Chris has had a continued focus on community wellbeing and public service.
Chris is also actively involved in charitable and fraternal organizations, including long-standing service with Sudan Shriners and the Wilson County Shrine Club in support of Shriners Hospitals for Children - work that reflects his belief in giving back and helping those in need. Through the Masonic Order, Chris has held leadership roles with the local Lodge supporting the Masonic Home For Children at Oxford.
Chris has been married to his wife, Lou Ann Upchurch, since 1989. He remains closely connected to the Wilson community and even works part-time catering with Parker’s Barbecue; a reminder that, above all else, he is a local neighbor who understands the people he serves.
Chris Boykin’s career has been defined by steady leadership, commitment to service, and a deep respect for the community he calls home. As Sheriff, he brings experience, integrity, and a clear focus on strengthening Wilson County for the future.
Vote For Chris Boykin on the democratic ballot.
Chris Boykin For Wilson County Sheriff