The police department employs 453 sworn police officers, 119 professional staff employees, and 4 grant position employees. Providing a high level of public service is the police department’s mission. The department, led by Chief Chito T. Walker, has many resources and specialized personnel at its disposal. The Charleston Police Department was the first municipal law enforcement agency in the State of South Carolina to be accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA).
Mission
It is the mission of the Charleston Police Department to serve all people within our jurisdiction with respect, fairness, and compassion. We are committed to the protection of life and property; the preservation of peace, order, and safety; the vigorous enforcement of local, state and federal laws; and the defense of the Constitution of the State of South Carolina and the Constitution of the United States of America in a fair and impartial manner.
Vision
The vision of the Charleston Police Department is to be a world class law enforcement agency committed to the values of Honor, Excellence, Accountability, Respect, and Teamwork. We demonstrate creativity, challenge our capabilities, and encourage initiative and risk-taking. We hold ourselves to a high standard of excellence and continually improve by solving problems and making decisions that benefit the organization and community. We are dedicated to service, lifelong learning, and professional growth.