The chief and all the officers of a South Carolina police department resigned last week, claiming "acts of harassment" by a town official pushed them out.
In a statement announcing his resignation on Facebook on Thursday, McColl Police Chief Bob Hale said he and the department's four other officers were leaving because of "repeated acts of harassment, personal attacks on my character, and the overall creation of a hostile work environment perpetuated by a specific councilman." Hale did not identify the councilman, but he claimed that the elected official's actions were "strategically used to inhibit the continued growth and success of the department."
"For months, I have endured unwarranted and malicious behavior aimed at undermining my integrity and leadership," he stated. "These actions have not only affected me personally but have also created a toxic atmosphere that has hindered the department's ability to function effectively. Despite our efforts to address these issues professionally and through appropriate channels, the harassment and hostility have persisted."
Mayor George Garner told The (Charleston) Post and Courier that he was shocked by Hale's claims on social media. He knew there was tension between Hale and the official, but he thought the issues had been resolved.
"We addressed it. We thought that we all come to an agreement to let bygones be bygones. Apologies were made and accepted, and I thought everything was fine."
According to Garner, Hale had turned in his letter of resignation on Oct. 31, and it did not mention any of the grievances he voiced in his social media post. One officer resigned with Hale, and the rest of the force stepped down on Nov. 14.
Garner told The Post and Courier that the town of roughly 2,000 people is not only used to high police turnover but also friction between the force and town lawmakers. The town has had six police chiefs in four years, and Garner said the chief before Hale also left because of clashes with town officials.
“They jump ship back and forth all the time. This is nothing new," said Garner, who added that he thinks the town council should interfere less with the next police chief.
While the town works to hire a new chief and officers, the Marlboro County Sheriff’s Office will help with serving the area. Garner said a deputy will be deployed to the town for the next 36 days.
