ALLENDALE, S.C. (WJBF) — After nearly three years leading the Allendale Police Department, Chief Lawrence Wiggins is stepping down. He’s taking a new position as the police chief in Roanoke Rapids, North Carolina, citing personal ties as a key factor in his decision. His last day is Thursday, marking two years and nine months since he took the job.
“It’s been a surreal feeling. This is my first post as a chief, and it’s kind of bittersweet coming to an end. But I’m excited for the future,” Chief Wiggins said.
When Wiggins arrived, the department was down to just one officer. He rebuilt the force, but keeping officers has been a challenge. “I know that’s not just a struggle for the town of Allendale,” he shared. “It’s a struggle for most small communities, especially when you can go to some of the neighboring counties and almost in the door as a certified officer making $70,000. That’s, that’s, that’s hard for any young person to turn down.”
One of his biggest achievements, he says, is cutting down homicides. In 2023, the city had six. So far in 2024, none involved gun violence. “We had a robust presence, not just from the police department, but also our state partners at SLED, Highway Patrol, DNR, Triple P—whenever we reached out to them for assistance.,” he shared.
Wiggins also pushed for more security with a network of surveillance cameras. He secured $200,000 for the project, and about 70 cameras will be installed throughout Allendale by May. “There was a shooting incident at the gas station right across the street. Our suspects were seen leaving, pulling out, then coming back and doing the shooting. They were caught by the camera we had just put up. We already saw a return within 24 hours of one of the cameras being up,” he recalled.
One goal he set remains unfinished—state accreditation. He says it’s key to best practices and community trust, but now, it’s up to his successor. “That is important, because it gives the community confidence, it gives the stakeholders confidence, and it gives the elected officials confidence that, the police department is, as good as you would like to think they are.”
He’s confident his successor will do a great job. His advice? Keep making progress and keep moving forward. “At the end of the day, as long as you’re making progress, putting one foot in front of the other, and moving forward, just keep executing and things will happen.”
Deputy Chief Jim Evans will handle daily operations until a new chief is named.
About Chief Wiggins:
Chief Wiggins’ law enforcement career spans years of dedication and service. He began his journey at the Aiken County Sheriff’s Office after leaving the Army, progressing through roles such as patrol deputy, criminal investigator, and narcotics investigator. His time with Savannah’s roadside unit, followed by his tenure at SLED, allowed him to handle complex cases, including a historic hate crime prosecution of Daqua Ritter. His work in Allendale, particularly his efforts with high-profile fraud and homicide cases, including the murder of Dime Doe, earned him recognition and respect, paving the way for his appointment as chief.
