News Summary
Chuck Wright has resigned as Spartanburg County Sheriff following a leave of absence due to medical reasons. His resignation comes amid a multi-agency investigation, including allegations of improper spending and drug use. Jeffery F. Stephens has been appointed as interim sheriff. Wright, who served for over two decades, faced increasing scrutiny regarding his leadership practices and the need for reform in the sheriff’s office.
Spartanburg County, South Carolina – Chuck Wright has officially resigned from his position as Spartanburg County Sheriff, effective May 23, 2025. His resignation follows a brief leave of absence that began on April 1, which was cited as due to undisclosed medical reasons. Wright has held the sheriff’s office since 2005, making his tenure extend over two decades.
The resignation comes during a time of heightened scrutiny regarding his conduct, with a multi-agency investigation underway that includes the FBI. Earlier in the morning of his resignation, Wright surrendered his badge and service weapon at the Spartanburg County Sheriff’s Office.
Prior to officially stepping down, Wright returned to work on May 21 after his medical leave. He was seen cleaning out his office late Thursday evening, a day before his resignation, and left his county-issued 2024 Ford King Ranch pickup truck parked in an atypical location.
Concerns around Wright’s leadership have been mounting, with accusations of improper spending practices using a county-funded credit card surfacing publicly. Reports suggest that expenses charged to this card included $12,000 on Apple.com, $8,000 on various fast-food and dining establishments, and an additional $8,000 on high-end hotels, with many of these transactions lacking accompanying receipts or explanations. Furthermore, there are allegations of drug use and instances of political retaliation against former deputies.
The scrutiny surrounding Wright also extends to his inner circle, as illustrated by the resignation of SCSO chaplain Amos Durham, who stepped down under similar allegations. The collective controversies have sparked a demand for more oversight and accountability within the sheriff’s office.
In response to the vacancies created by Wright’s resignation, South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster has appointed Cherokee County Chief Deputy Jeffery F. Stephens to serve as the interim sheriff until a special election can be conducted. This leadership transition signals a potential shift within the department as officials seek to restore public trust in law enforcement in Spartanburg County.
Local county officials have expressed hopes for a fresh start in law enforcement following Wright’s departure, viewing this situation as a troubling chapter in the county’s law enforcement history. While Wright has received recognition for his long service, concerns regarding his leadership practices have induced a prevailing atmosphere of mistrust within the sheriff’s office.
In summary, Chuck Wright’s resignation marks a significant turning point for Spartanburg County as it navigates the challenges posed by the ongoing investigations and responds to the need for reform within the sheriff’s office. As the community awaits the results of the special election and the final outcomes of the investigations, there is a collective anticipation for improved law enforcement practices moving forward.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Post and Courier
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