MAYOR GOODWIN ANNOUNCES CHARLESTON POLICE DEPARTMENT ADDED EVENING PATROLS FOR HYBRID UNIT

Mayor Amy Shuler Goodwin announced the Charleston Police Department expanded its Hybrid Unit hours of operation—adding an evening shift Tuesday through Saturday from 1 p.m. to 11 p.m. Additional patrols will be concentrated around the Charleston Town Center Mall, Capitol Street, Elk City, Transit Mall, Charleston Coliseum & Convention Center and the downtown area.

“Charleston’s Hybrid Unit has been instrumental in fostering relationships and supporting a positive environment within our communities,” Mayor Goodwin said. “Keeping our citizens safe is my top priority and adding additional patrols throughout the evening hours is the first step in accomplishing that.”

“The more visibility that we can provide throughout the downtown area, especially around our shops and restaurants, the better off we will be,” Chief of Police Opie Smith stated. “I feel that the additional patrols will be beneficial to public safety.”

This specialized unit bikes and walks throughout the Charleston community to reach out to citizens directly and patrol the streets. These officers are also involved in community outreach, including teaching bike safety courses and mentoring children. The officers within the Hybrid Unit must have been on the force at least three years before joining this specialized division.