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McColl Police Department Faces Uncertain Future as Entire Force Resigns Amid Allegations of Hostile Work Environment

McCOLL, S.C., — Where is the McColl Police? The Town of McColl, South Carolina, will soon be without a police force following the resignation of Police Chief Bob Hale and all four of the town’s officers. Mayor George Garner confirmed to CC News Network that Friday marks the final day for the department’s leadership and staff.

According to Garner, Chief Hale was the first to resign, with the other officers—whom Hale brought to the town—following his lead. However, Hale’s public statement paints a much more contentious picture, alleging repeated harassment, personal attacks, and the creation of a hostile work environment by an unnamed town councilman.

Allegations of Harassment and Budget Cuts

In a detailed Facebook post, Chief Hale described enduring “unwarranted and malicious behavior” that undermined his leadership and created a “toxic atmosphere” within the police department.

“For months, I have endured unwarranted and malicious behavior aimed at undermining my integrity and leadership,” Hale wrote. “These actions have not only affected me personally but have also hindered the department’s ability to function effectively.”

Hale accused the councilman of cutting the department’s budget and failing to address critical needs such as modernizing equipment, enhancing training, and increasing staffing. According to Hale, the lack of investment left the department ill-equipped to meet the expectations of McColl residents.

“This lack of investment hampered our ability to operate at the standard the citizens of the Town of McColl rightfully expect and deserve,” Hale stated. “The majority of my tenure as Chief of Police was spent clearing the names of my officers as well as myself from numerous falsehoods.”

A Community in Crisis

Mayor Garner, however, offered a different perspective, claiming that Hale’s resignation letter expressed gratitude for his time in McColl and noted that he had received a better job offer. Garner reiterated that Hale was not leaving on bad terms.

To address the immediate loss of the police force, Garner has reached out to the Marlboro County Sheriff’s Office and other agencies for assistance. He has also requested off-duty officers from neighboring departments to fill the gap temporarily, with pay provided by the town. Additionally, the town has contacted the South Carolina State Law Enforcement Division (SLED) for support.

Efforts to hire a new police chief and officers are ongoing. Garner encouraged certified officers interested in working in McColl to apply at Town Hall.

Hale’s Call for Accountability

In his statement, Hale emphasized that his decision to resign was not made lightly but was necessary to highlight the severity of the issues facing the department.

“I believe that stepping away is the only way to shed light on the severity of these issues and call for accountability and change,” Hale wrote. “I remain hopeful that the Town of McColl will come together to address these challenges, prioritize ethical leadership, and create an environment where those in public service can perform their duties free from undue interference and hostility.”

As McColl grapples with the sudden loss of its police force, the town faces critical questions about leadership, resource allocation, and the future of public safety for its residents.

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