Horry County, December 22, 2025
A new legislative proposal in Horry County aims to dissolve the local police department and consolidate law enforcement responsibilities within the Sheriff’s Department. Introduced by Representative William Bailey, the proposal seeks to streamline policing operations, increase officer presence, and address the unique dual law enforcement structure in the county. Community reactions have varied, with grassroots support for the proposal, while the police chief expresses concerns over the potential implications of such a significant change.
Horry County
A significant legislative proposal in Horry County, South Carolina, aims to fundamentally alter the structure of local law enforcement by dissolving the Horry County Police Department and transferring all county law enforcement responsibilities to the Sheriff’s Department. This initiative, championed by Representative William Bailey of Little River, seeks to streamline policing operations and potentially increase the number of officers actively patrolling the community.
The Legislative Proposal
Representative Bailey’s proposal is rooted in a bill that would repeal a 1959 law, which originally led to the creation of the county police department. If enacted, this measure would consolidate law enforcement duties, marking a significant shift in how public safety is administered across Horry County. The current arrangement sees Horry County as the only county in South Carolina operating with both a police department and a sheriff’s office, creating a unique dual system of authority. The stated goal of this consolidation is to foster greater efficiency within law enforcement services.
Community and Official Reactions
The prospect of such a change has elicited varied responses. A grassroots organization has publicly voiced its support for Representative Bailey’s proposal, aligning with the vision of streamlined policing and an increased presence of law enforcement personnel on the streets. Conversely, the Horry County police chief has publicly addressed the proposal, highlighting concerns regarding the potential implications of dissolving the department. The contemplation of such an organizational shift invites reflection on the intricate balance between established institutions and the pursuit of operational enhancements for the public good.
Context of Law Enforcement in South Carolina
Across much of South Carolina, the sheriff’s office typically serves as the primary county-wide law enforcement agency, a model that differs from Horry County’s current dual structure. For instance, the Richland County Sheriff’s Department plays a significant role in law enforcement within its jurisdiction. Similarly, the Solicitor’s Office and Sheriff’s Office often collaborate on complex investigations, such as those related to the opioid overdose crisis in counties like Lancaster. These examples underscore a prevalent structure where the sheriff’s department is central to county law enforcement efforts. The Horry County Police Department, in its current form, provides law enforcement services to the areas it covers, as outlined in the county’s comprehensive plan. The debate now before the county considers whether this established framework, with its layers of experience and community ties, should yield to a consolidated model, driven by the belief that such a change could optimize resources and enhance public safety outcomes.
Broader Legislative Landscape in Horry County
In a separate but concurrent legislative development, Horry County Senator Stephen Goldfinch recently introduced a bill aimed at criminalizing coercive control within South Carolina. This distinct legislative effort underscores a broader period of legislative activity and reevaluation of laws affecting the citizens of Horry County and the state, reflecting an ongoing attentiveness to the evolving needs and protections desired by a populace navigating a complex world. Each bill, whether focused on the architecture of public safety or the nuanced dynamics of human relationships, represents a considered attempt to refine the legal frameworks that shape daily life, inviting a deeper contemplation of what constitutes a just and orderly society.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary aim of the legislative proposal in Horry County?
The primary aim is to dissolve the Horry County Police Department and return all county law enforcement duties to the Sheriff’s Department.
Who introduced this legislative proposal?
Representative William Bailey of Little River introduced the proposal.
What law would be repealed if this proposal passes?
The proposal would repeal the 1959 law which led to the formation of the county police department.
Why is Horry County unique in its law enforcement structure within South Carolina?
Horry County is the only county in South Carolina to have both a police department and a sheriff’s office.
What are Representative Bailey’s stated goals for this change?
Bailey’s goals are to streamline policing while putting more officers on the street.
Has there been any public support for this proposal?
Yes, a grassroots group backs the proposal to dissolve the Horry County Police Department.
Has the Horry County Police Chief commented on the proposal?
Yes, the Horry County police chief has spoken out on the proposal to dissolve the department.
Key Features of the Horry County Law Enforcement Proposal
| Feature | Description | Geographic Scope |
|---|---|---|
| Proposal Originator | Representative William Bailey | Horry County |
| Primary Objective | Dissolve Horry County Police Department and transfer duties to Sheriff’s Department | Horry County |
| Current Structure | Only county in South Carolina with both a police department and a sheriff’s office | State-level (South Carolina) |
| Proposed Action | Repeal of 1959 law that formed the county police department | Horry County |
| Stated Benefits | Streamline policing, put more officers on the street | Horry County |
| Support | Grassroots group backs the proposal | Horry County |
| Opposition | Horry County Police Chief has spoken out | Horry County |
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Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
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