Rep. Nancy Mace Helps Secure $625,000 To Hire 5 New Officers In Summerville
Federal award supports public safety as Lowcountry community continues rapid growth
CHARLESTON, S.C. (Mar. 24, 2026) — Congresswoman Nancy Mace (SC-01) announced the Town of Summerville Police Department has been awarded $625,000 through the U.S. Department of Justice's COPS Office Hiring Program, funding the addition of five new police officers to strengthen public safety in the community.
After local officials identified a need for additional officers, Rep. Mace's office worked closely with the department and identified the COPS grant program to connect them with the federal funding opportunity. The Summerville Police Department applied, and Rep. Mace's office submitted a formal letter of support to the Department of Justice advocating for the award.
"Keeping our communities safe is non-negotiable, and it starts with making sure law enforcement has the personnel and support to do their jobs," said Congresswoman Mace. "Summerville is one of the fastest-growing communities in South Carolina, and public safety must keep pace. When local leaders made it clear more officers were needed, we got to work. This funding puts more officers on the street and keeps our community safe. Plain and simple."
Chris Hirsch, Deputy Chief of Police for the Summerville Police Department, shared the following statement on the department receiving the grant:
“We are grateful to receive this funding through the COPS Hiring Program, which will help us continue providing a high level of service to the Summerville community. We are especially thankful for all lawmakers who continue to support law enforcement, our initiatives, and invest in public safety,” said Hirsch.
Summerville and Dorchester County have grown significantly since 2020, placing increased pressure on public safety operations. The department has been recognized for its community engagement efforts, including the "Dignity Project," which focuses on building trust between officers and the residents they serve. The five new officers will support community policing and crime prevention as the region continues to grow.
The COPS Hiring Program provides funding directly to law enforcement agencies to hire and rehire additional officers, increase community policing capacity, and improve public safety outcomes.
SEE LETTER BELOW:
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