Port Royal Begins Search for New Police Chief
The Town of Port Royal, South Carolina, has begun a nationwide search for a new police chief, following the announcement of Police Chief Alan Beach’s forthcoming retirement. Beach has served with the town’s police force and in public service for nearly 40 years, leading the police department as chief for over a decade.
A Farewell to Chief Beach
“Personally for me, as long as I’ve been in the town of Port Royal, I do not know Port Royal without Chief Beach at the head of the Police Department,” said Kevin Phillips, Mayor of Port Royal. Mayor Phillips’ sentiments were seconded by Town Manager Van Willis, who will be responsible for hiring the new police chief.
Willis expressed a hopeful outlook for the future: “I can tell you that whoever we hire will be an appropriate candidate for the town of Port Royal. We are determined to ensure a seamless transition and continued excellence in our public safety efforts.”
The Search Begins
According to the town’s official statement, an expansive nationwide search has been initiated, attracting approximately 40 applicants from diverse geographies around the country. Through a rigorous selection process, the applicant pool has been narrowed down to six potential candidates.
“We’ve culled the list down to the best of the best, and now we’re at the stage where we’ve narrowed it down to three,” Mayor Phillips informed.
Next Steps
The final three candidates are scheduled to attend a public council meeting next month so that they can familiarize themselves with the area and have an opportunity to interact with the local community.
“We want our residents to know their law enforcement, to feel comfortable with them, and to have access to open dialogue and engagement. As such, having the community actively involved in this decision is paramount to us,” Phillips explained.
A Fond Farewell and a Promising Future
Chief Allen Beach is set to officially retire on September 6th, with plans to remain in the area. The town’s leaders have expressed their heartfelt appreciation for his years of dedicated service and wished him well for his future endeavors.
“I wish him very well. In whatever future endeavor he undertakes but we’ll probably call on him from time to time to help us out when we need it,” Willis noted, signaling that while they are excited for what’s to come, Chief Beach’s contribution to the town won’t be forgotten.
The search for a new police chief marks a significant milestone in Port Royal’s history, as they bid farewell to a long-time community leader and open a new chapter towards the future. With community involvement at the crux of the process, the town assures that the new police chief will embody the values and the spirit of the Town of Port Royal.
