BERKELEY COUNTY, S.C.–After serving as Berkeley County’s longtime sheriff since 1995, today Wayne DeWitt announced in a statement his plans to step down from office.
“In my recent public statement I apologized for my well-publicized conduct of December 28, 2014. I reiterate how sorry I am for my actions and the poor choices I made,” DeWitt stated. “Because of the magnitude of the decision and its implications I have taken some time to honestly assess the situation with the singular goal of ‘doing what is right and what is honorable.'”
DeWitt’s resignation comes after his arrest for driving under the influence. According to the South Carolina Highway Patrol, he hit another vehicle, fled the scene and then led officers on a high speed chase traveling more than 100 miles per hour. Just a few days later, he took his oath office privately after winning re-election in June.
Since the incident, DeWitt has stated that he’s done a lot of soul searching.
“In the end, I know and understand the entire situation is the product of my own failures. As an elected official, as Sheriff and as a person, I recognize that I must be held accountable. I have concluded that in light of the cloud on the Office of Sheriff of Berkeley County resulting from my conduct on December 28th, I can no longer be an effective public servant regardless of how the legal process unfolds,” stated DeWitt. I am convinced that the best way to begin to restore the public trust is for me to resign from the Office of Sheriff of Berkeley County.”
DeWitt stated that he had notified the appropriate officials of his decision and added that his resignation takes effect immediately.
“I want to thank the citizens of Berkeley County for the honor of serving you as your Sheriff for many years,” stated DeWitt.
In light of DeWitt’s decision to step down from office, Berkeley Co. Supervisor Bill Peagler issued his own statement.
“What happened in December was a very unfortunate incident. We thank God that no one was seriously injured in the accident,” stated Peagler. “We are grateful for the incredible deputies in the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office who have continued to provide excellent service to Berkeley County residents, despite the distractions surrounding the incident. I hope today’s resignation will allow our sheriff deputies to continue their great work in protecting the residents of Berkeley County without distraction.”
Peagler added that he has reached out to the Governor’s Office to offer his full support and assistance, while she decides how to replace the sheriff.
“My pledge to the people of Berkeley County is that I will work closely with whomever the next sheriff will be to ensure our first responders have the proper equipment and support needed to protect our residents, reduce crime and make our neighborhoods safer,” stated Peagler. “I pray for Wayne and his family during this time. And, I thank him for his 40 years of service to our community.”
- Solicitor Wilson announces indictments against former sheriff Wayne Dewitt - February 10, 2015
- Ex-SLED agent recommended for interim sheriff of Berkeley Co. - February 5, 2015
- Berkeley Co. Sheriff Wayne Dewitt resigns from office - February 4, 2015
No day of celebration, sad day for the Sheriff Office. Shows his Integrity.