News Summary
Chuck Wright, the longest-serving sheriff in Spartanburg County history, has resigned amid an FBI investigation into his misuse of county resources, including inappropriate expenditures of approximately $53,000 on personal expenses. Following a leave of absence for health reasons, Wright stepped down under pressure from county officials and ongoing scrutiny regarding his financial practices. The investigation has also led to inquiries into a former chaplain associated with the sheriff’s office. A primary election to fill the vacant sheriff position is set for August.
Spartanburg – Former Spartanburg County Sheriff Chuck Wright has resigned amid an ongoing FBI investigation into his spending practices while in office. Wright, who served as sheriff for over 20 years, the longest tenure in Spartanburg County history, officially stepped down on May 23, 2025, just a week after returning from a leave of absence that he attributed to a medical issue.
The investigation has raised serious concerns about Wright’s use of a county credit card, with reports suggesting he inappropriately charged approximately $53,000 in personal expenses. South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson mentioned potential charges against Wright for misconduct as a public officer, misuse of office for financial gain, and fraudulently obtaining drugs.
The scrutiny on Wright’s activities intensified when he returned to the sheriff’s office on May 16, following a decision by the county administration, which was influenced by guidance from the South Carolina Attorney General’s Office. This decision required that his paid leave could not be extended any further. Just one week later, Wright chose to resign amid pressure from county officials and the continuing investigations.
Wright’s controversial use of county resources also drew criticism, particularly for allegedly using helicopters for personal purposes. This misuse of funds prompted a reduction in the sheriff’s office aviation program funding. Since the commencement of investigations, it has become apparent that the State Law Enforcement Division (SLED) began looking into Wright’s activities back in September 2024, prior to his leave of absence.
Further complicating matters, former Sheriff’s Office Chaplain Amos Durham is under investigation due to allegations of breach of trust associated with the Chaplain’s Benevolence Fund. There are also reports from former sheriff’s office captain Gregg Satterfield, indicating suspicious activities regarding Durham’s management of that fund. Durham’s alleged misuse is under review for any potential breaches of public trust or fraud.
Wright’s financial records, especially concerning his credit card use, have raised additional concerns. Reports suggest he failed to maintain proper documentation, claiming a portion of the expenditures related to “phone games.” These claims come as part of the broader investigation into his financial dealings while serving as sheriff.
The resignation has initiated a political shift in the county, prompting a primary election scheduled for August 5, 2025, to fill the vacant position of sheriff. There are nine candidates vying for the role, including Chief Deputy Jeffery Stephens from the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office, who is currently serving as interim sheriff.
As of now, no Democratic candidates have emerged to contest the position following Wright’s resignation, which could reshape the political landscape within Spartanburg County. The ongoing investigation by both local and federal law enforcement agencies continues to unfold, potentially unraveling more details about the misconduct allegations against Wright and involving others in the sheriff’s office.
In summary, the outcomes of both the investigation and the upcoming primary election will be closely monitored, as the implications surrounding Wright’s actions and subsequent resignation unfold in the coming months.
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Additional Resources
- Post and Courier
- Go Upstate
- Fox Carolina
- Wikipedia: Spartanburg County, South Carolina
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Spartanburg
Author: STAFF HERE SPARTANBURG
The SPARTANBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESpartanburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Spartanburg, Spartanburg County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Spartanburg International Festival, Spartanburg ArtWalk, and motorsport events at Spartanburg Speedway. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Spartanburg Area Chamber of Commerce and the Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System Foundation, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and textiles that power the local economy such as BMW Manufacturing and Milliken & Company. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
