After much prayerful consideration I have decided to run for Sheriff of Charleston County.  Many of you have encouraged and influenced this decision and I am grateful to each and every one of you.

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   As Sheriff, it will be my personal mission to transform our Charleston County Sheriff’s Office into the finest law enforcement agency in the State of South Carolina, bar none. Our good deputies and detention officers need to be proud of their daily service and the positive difference they are making.  You, the honest citizen, should be proud of them.  All of this is quite possible with the right leadership.

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     The Sheriff provides vital services to all of us in Charleston County and has a key role in protecting our Constitutional rights and working with our mayors and police chiefs throughout the county to protect us and keep us safe. From traffic issues to combating gang activity, a strong Sheriff’s Office can and will make a difference in our quality of life.

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      Our law enforcement professionals are our first line of defense against  crime. These are our real-world Jedi Knights.  They put their very lives on the line for us every day and night, yet their bravery and heroics typically remain anonymous and unheralded.  We must ensure that they are well vetted, properly trained, superbly led, and otherwise taken care of.

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     Your current Sheriff lacks sound leadership qualities - a dilemma common  in law enforcement around the country. As a result, the county jail is understaffed by scores of corrections officers, leaving those on duty in peril and increasing the chances of escapes and injuries. The deputies patrolling the county are likewise serving in insufficient numbers to properly protect and serve our communities or back-up our municipal city police officers. Inadequate leadership creates difficulty in hiring - and retaining - good people. 

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    I know exactly how to change that with first-rate demanding training, proactive approaches to solving crime problems, and strong leadership throughout the ranks. Together, we can develop the kind of Sheriff’s Office to serve the good folks of Charleston County as never before.

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     Sound leadership will be the focal point of my tenure as Sheriff. I am a retired United States Marine officer as well as a former Charleston County Deputy Sheriff. The Marine Corps’ culture of leadership excellence is no myth and I know what being a good cop is all about. I intend to instill and maintain an environment for top-quality law enforcement and professional public service for our deputies and detention officers. 

 

I know how to apply positive cooperation and vision in working with all of our good communities as well. A good Sheriff will lead the Sheriff’s Office, lead the County Detention Center, and lead our communities and cities to unite against crime and for a better and safer Charleston County.

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     I am humbled and honored to have this opportunity to serve you.  Thank you!

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                     -Gregory H. Kitchens