MONCKS CORNER, SC – Berkeley County Sheriff Duane Lewis announced changes in the structure of the Sheriff’s Office including the hire of a new Chief Deputy, Hanahan Police Chief Mike Cochran.
“I made a commitment to the people of Berkeley County that we would improve efficiency in the Sheriff’s Office and strengthen public safety in our communities,” said Lewis. “I believe the structural changes made will help accomplish both of these goals. I am excited about the addition of Chief Cochran to the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office and look forward to working closely with him to further improve our Office and the service we provide to county residents.”
Chief Deputy Cochran joins the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office after serving 4 years as the Police Chief in Hanahan and over 17 years serving with the Lauderhill (FL) Police Department, including 3 years as Assistant Chief of Police. Cochran, who has a Doctorate in Education and a Master’s in Public Administration, has also served as an Adjunct Professor at the College of Charleston, Charleston Southern University and Trident Technical College.
“When the City of Hanahan selected me to be the Chief of Police in late 2011, it was a dream come true,” said Cochran. “I have absolutely loved working for, serving with and helping the people of Hanahan. When hired, Hanahan’s City Council wanted community policing instilled in the agency and throughout the City. To that end, I have worked tirelessly to bring that to Hanahan and to cultivate valuable relationships, both internally and externally. Hanahan has an awesome sense of community, and the foundation has been laid for continued success. Sheriff Lewis asked me to serve as his Chief Deputy, and I have accepted that opportunity. Sheriff Lewis’ vision for the county is very similar to what has been done in Hanahan, and I look forward to being able to continue to serve the great citizens of Hanahan and all of Berkeley County as Chief Deputy.”
Other notable structural changes in the Office include the promotions of former Captain Jeremy Baker to Major of Division of Uniform, Patrol and Judicial Services and former Captain David Brabham to Major of Investigations and Support Services.
“Majors Baker and Brabham have great records as true leaders in this Office,” said Lewis. “I know they will continue this work and enhance our Office’s ability to assist the public.”
Former Interim Sheriff and Chief Deputy Rick Ollic will remain with the Sheriff’s Office, overseeing cold cases and special investigations.
“Captain Ollic has an incredible knowledge of not only the Office and personnel, but also how to work with the public on tough cases.” said Lewis. “I know that he will do a great job in this new position and solve some of our more difficult cases.”
Additionally, former patrol Sergeant Willie Hickman has been promoted to Captain of the Uniform Patrol Division, and former Court Services Lieutenant Barry Currie has been promoted to Captain of Judicial Services.
