Three officers from the Summerton Police Department have resigned, and Police Chief Donell Dixon has announced his upcoming retirement, effective April 18, 2025, according to information shared during the Feb. 11 Town Council meeting.
Mayor Keith Bowman stated that the resignations were not unexpected.
"It did not come as a surprise being that I, along with council, sat with each of these officers prior, and they informed us of their reasons for resigning," Bowman said.
Regarding Chief Dixon’s retirement, Bowman clarified that the decision was unrelated to the resignations or any issues within the town.
"His decision was based on a personal matter," Bowman said. "These officers expressed that this was not a town-related matter and we wish them well on their future endeavors."
To address the vacancies, the town has initiated a recruitment campaign and is working with the Clarendon County Sheriff’s Office to provide temporary law enforcement coverage.
"Sheriff Baxley has assured me, as well as council, that he will work with us to provide the needed law enforcement coverage during this transitional process beginning the [end] of February," Bowman said. "The town has a very good relationship with our county’s Sheriff’s Department. They have assisted the town before during transitional periods similar to this and we are extremely grateful for their assistance."
Despite the staffing changes, Bowman emphasized that public safety remains a priority.
"The citizens of Summerton can rest assured that their safety is our top priority," he said.
This is a developing story. The Manning Times will provide updates as more information becomes available.
