News Summary
Sheriff Chuck Wright has resigned from his position in Spartanburg County following mounting scrutiny over conduct and an ongoing FBI investigation. His resignation follows accusations related to spending practices and potential drug use. Wright’s letter to Governor McMaster cited a recent health diagnosis as reason for his departure. After serving as sheriff for over two decades, his exit marks a significant change in local law enforcement leadership, prompting discussions on transparency and public trust. Jeffery F. Stephens has been appointed as interim sheriff while a special election is set to take place.
Spartanburg County, South Carolina – Sheriff Chuck Wright has officially resigned from his position as the sheriff of Spartanburg County, as confirmed by multiple law enforcement sources. The announcement of his resignation came on May 23, 2025, concluding days of speculation about his future in the role.
Wright’s resignation followed significant scrutiny regarding his conduct, coinciding with an escalating multi-agency investigation involving his administration. On the evening prior to his resignation, he returned his badge and service weapon and cleared out his office, indicating the seriousness of the situation at hand.
Reports suggest Wright faced allegations surrounding improper spending practices and potential drug use, leading to an active FBI investigation focused on his financial habits and associated misconduct. Moreover, after taking a seven-week medical leave for unspecified health reasons, he returned to work on May 21, just days before his departure.
In a letter addressed to Governor Henry McMaster, Wright attributed his resignation to a “recent health diagnosis,” though specifics about his health condition have not been disclosed. The sheriff’s unexpected exit signals the end of a notable career spanning over two decades in law enforcement.
Wright was first elected as sheriff in 2004 and has been reelected every four years since, effectively serving in the position for more than 20 years. He gained national recognition in 2016 for his role in the arrest of serial killer Todd Kohlhepp, which remains one of the most high-profile cases of his tenure. However, his time in office has not been without controversy.
Wright’s administration has faced multiple lawsuits and controversies, including claims of political retaliation and malicious prosecution. Notably, he drew scrutiny for hiring practices, particularly after appointing his son as a deputy, which triggered an ethics investigation. His administration was also criticized for implementing Operation Rolling Thunder, a policing initiative flagged for potential racial bias.
Local officials have expressed their surprise at the suddenness of Wright’s resignation, indicating that it marks the conclusion of a prominent period in Spartanburg County law enforcement. The community now faces the challenge of restoring public trust in the sheriff’s office following this development.
In response to Wright’s resignation, Jeffery F. Stephens, the Chief Deputy of the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office, has been appointed as interim sheriff. This appointment is intended to provide stability in the interim period while a special election is organized to fill the position permanently.
The unfolding situation has spurred an increased focus on the need for greater oversight and transparency within the sheriff’s office moving forward. Amid calls for reform, local council members have voiced a hopeful outlook that Wright’s resignation will restore public confidence in law enforcement within the community.
As Spartanburg County grapples with the implications of this significant change in leadership, the outcome of the ongoing investigations and the upcoming special election will likely shape the future of the sheriff’s office and its relationship with the public.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Fox Carolina
- Wikipedia: Spartanburg County, South Carolina
- WYFF4
- Google Search: Chuck Wright Spartanburg County Sheriff
- Post and Courier
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Sheriff
- FitsNews
- Google News: Spartanburg County Sheriff Resignation
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