News Summary
Spartanburg County Sheriff Chuck Wright has resigned following an FBI investigation into allegations of misconduct and questionable spending practices. Citing health issues in his resignation letter, Wright’s departure ends a lengthy tenure that began in 2005. Concerns over financial misconduct, including misuse of a county-funded credit card, have emerged alongside various internal investigations. In the meantime, Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office Chief Deputy Jeffery F. Stephens has been appointed interim sheriff as the county moves forward with leadership changes.
Spartanburg, South Carolina – Spartanburg County Sheriff Chuck Wright announced his resignation on May 23, 2025, amid an ongoing FBI investigation focusing on allegations of misconduct and concerning spending practices. In his resignation letter to South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster, Wright cited an undisclosed health issue as the reason for his departure.
Wright has served as sheriff since 2005, having first been elected in 2004, and boasts more than 20 years of experience in law enforcement. His resignation follows a leave of absence which began on April 1, when he stepped away from his duties due to unspecified medical problems that required extended treatment. Following the announcement, Wright cleared his office, returned his sheriff’s badge and his county-issued vehicle, marking an end to his tenure.
Spartanburg County officials confirmed Wright’s resignation after receiving numerous calls from concerned residents and community members. The chairman of the Spartanburg County Council, Manning Lynch, expressed surprise at the news, highlighting Wright’s popularity within the community and expressing hopes for positive changes in the county’s law enforcement leadership.
In response to Wright’s resignation, Governor McMaster appointed Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office Chief Deputy Jeffery F. Stephens as the interim sheriff. Stephens, who has an extensive law enforcement background that includes starting his career with the Spartanburg County Sheriff’s Office in 1980 and serving as chief deputy in Cherokee County, will oversee the office until a special election can be held.
The FBI’s investigation into Wright has drawn considerable attention, particularly allegations regarding misuse of a county-funded credit card. This includes spending over $53,000 on personal items without proper justification. In addition to financial misconduct, Wright has faced scrutiny in recent months for claims of political retaliation and other misconduct incidents, particularly concerning hiring practices involving his son. Internal investigations related to these matters have emerged, including interviews conducted with three former deputies regarding allegations of Wright’s drug use and financial irregularities.
Adding to the growing controversies, a lawsuit has also been filed against Wright for wrongful termination by a former lieutenant, who alleges that he was dismissed after objecting to the hiring of the sheriff’s son. While the County Council was unable to remove Wright from his elected position, members expressed hope that his resignation would improve public perceptions of law enforcement in Spartanburg County.
Wright came into the public spotlight for his role in leading a high-profile arrest in 2016, targeting serial killer Todd Kohlhepp, yet his recent tenure has been marred by issues of trust and integrity. His resignation comes at a crucial time as the Spartanburg County Sheriff’s Office faces transformative changes amid ongoing investigations and a community increasingly dissatisfied with the direction of its law enforcement leadership.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Spartanburg County and City Council Prepare for Special Elections
Sheriff Chuck Wright Returns Amid FBI Investigation
Former Spartanburg Deputy Sues Sheriff for Wrongful Termination
Two Teachers Arrested for Assaulting Special Needs Students in Spartanburg County
Police Force Resignation Crisis Hits McColl, S.C.
Tragic Crash Claims Life of McColl Mayor George Garner II
Additional Resources
- FitsNews: Spartanburg County Sheriff Chuck Wright Resigns
- Wikipedia: Spartanburg County, South Carolina
- Fox Carolina: Officials Chuck Wright Resigns Spartanburg County Sheriff
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Spartanburg
- Post and Courier: Spartanburg SC Sheriff Chuck Wright Resigns FBI
- Google Search: Chuck Wright Spartanburg Sheriff
