North Charleston to conduct national search for new police chief

NORTH CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) – A national search will be conducted to find North Charleston’s next chief of police.

The search comes after Chief Greg Gomes announced last week that he planned to retire as the North Charleston Police Department’s leader this summer. It’s a position he’s held since May of last year.

David Cheatle, who serves as special assistant to the mayor, was asked to oversee the selection process. City officials said Cheatle is negotiating with the Police Executive Research Forum (PERF) to assist with the process.

While a national search will be conducted, North Charleston’s leaders said three of the department’s deputy chiefs will be allowed to apply and participate in the selection process.

“Not only will this process further develop our Deputy Chiefs, but their work over the years in relationship building with our citizens only makes it fair that they have an opportunity to apply and participate,” said Mayor Burgess.

City officials said they hope to find a leader who meets national best practices and “deeply understands the unique needs and values” of North Charleston’s citizens.

Gomes was named chief of the North Charleston Police Department in May 2023 after Reggie Burgess retired to focus on his mayoral run.