Richmond County Crime Falls 25 Percent Despite Deputy Shortage

Crime rates in Richmond County dropped 25 percent during early 2025, while the Sheriff's Office works through a critical staff shortage. The office seeks fresh talent to maintain public safety, mirroring a nationwide trend of police staffing challenges.

"With COVID, it sort of hurt us. And I hate to say it, but with the people looking for jobs today, they want to work remote. You can't be a police officer and work remote," said Lieutenant Mark Chestang to WRDW.

The recruitment chief points to advancement chances as a key selling point. "I'm not trying to go out and acquire deputies from other agencies in a way that upsets them, but a lot of times, a lot of these smaller agencies, they don't have the opportunity or the job growth that we have here at the Richmond County Sheriff's Office, we have tons of divisions, tons of upward movement," Chestang said.

Short-staffed but resourceful, the office adapted by moving officers between districts to target high-crime spots. Success hinges on bringing more officers into the ranks.

"The more people you have on the street interacting with the community, even making traffic stops because you catch them in the act, you actually help stop them before it even happens," Chestang said.

The office stresses public service in its hiring approach. Officials aim to add certified officers who can start patrol duties quickly. The office provides both training paths and advancement chances to skilled candidates ready to serve their neighbors. Chestang encourages qualified candidates to consider joining the Richmond County Sheriff's Office.