Police Chief Harry Sewell Retiring

Mount Pleasant's police chief will step down next month after 22 years on the job, according to a town news release.

"Today, I announce with mixed emotions that Police Chief Harry Sewell has submitted his retirement from the Town of Mount Pleasant, effective Dec. 31," said Town Administrator Eric DeMoura in a statement.

DeMoura lauded praise on Chief Sewell, who has shepherded the police force through two decades of tremendous community growth.

"His professionalism and unwavering commitment to serving the citizens of Mount Pleasant is something we are truly thankful for and something we will undoubtedly miss," DeMoura said. "Harry is a great man and a top-notch police chief – the finest."

Now comes the search for a new chief. DeMoura said he'll look within the town's current ranks for a replacement, but the issue will be discussed with town council at tomorrow's council meeting, he said.

"I believe that we possess in-house the talent we need to fill Harry’s position and to maintain the department’s long standing tradition of excellence," DeMoura said "I plan to discuss with Town Council our selection for Harry’s replacement immediately."

South Carolina Open Meeting laws allow personnel discussions to occur behind closed doors.