A South Carolina town was left without any police officers after a police commander and his entire police force abruptly resigned last year. The police chief confirmed that a” toxic” councillor, who had created a “hostile work culture,” was to blame for the defections.
Following the defections of McColl Police Chief Bob Hale and the South Carolina area’s four additional police officers, McColl Mayor George Garner reported to WMBF News last week that the city would be in a “difficult condition.”
Garner told WMBF News that Hale was the first to publish his departure, followed by the area’s other police officials. Garner added,” We’re constantly working to get a new police captain and more officials”.
In a Facebook post, Hale explained the reason behind his departure, saying,” It is with a heavy heart that I do affirm my resignation as Chief of Police of , the McColl Police Department , along with all four of my brother officers. Numerous abuse, specific problems on my personality, and the general development of a hostile work environment perpetuated by a certain Councilman contributed to my personal decision to leave the McColl Police Department.
Hale claimed that the unknown councilman forced him to exhibit “unwarranted and malignant behavior” that adversely affected the authorities chief’s leadership and moral character.
Learn MORE: City abandons entire police force
According to Hale,” These steps have not only affected me physically, but they have also created a toxic environment that has hampered the agency’s ability to function effectively.” The abuse and hostility persist despite our efforts to properly and effectively address these issues.
In his Twitter article, Hale explained that a” significant amount of money was cut” from the police department’s budget due to the unknown councillor. As a result of diminished money, Hale said the department’s” important needs” were not being met.
The former police chief expressed regret over any potential negative effects on the neighborhood and said the decision to resign was” hardly made quietly.”
Hale argued that stepping aside is the only way to highlight the gravity of these problems and promote change. ” I’m optimistic that the Town of McColl will work together to address these issues, promote ethical leadership, and foster a work environment where open servants can perform their duties without unnecessary interference and hostility,” he said.
