It is my deep regret to inform you today that Governor Mark Sanford has withdrawn my name from consideration for a second term as your Director. I made a decision in 2004 involving a disciplinary action with a trooper in which the governor was not in agreement.

I have agreed to continue to serve as director until a new one is named. I hope this will help ease some of the tension and disarray that can accompany such events. Colonel Roark will retire from the Highway Patrol as well on April 30.

Unfortunately, in state government there are certain political realities. When I accepted this position four years ago, I understood some of those realities. Being in a position of authority, however, often means making decisions that will invariably be unpopular with some. I have always tried to make my decisions balancing the totality of circumstances and leaning on the principals of integrity and fairness.

I am profoundly disappointed to leave this agency that I’ve come to love under what I feel is “politics” at its worst. I can honestly say, however, I will leave my post with great pride in our many accomplishments thanks to a core of excellent and dedicated employees.

I am so deeply grateful for the hard work of so many toward a common goal – to make our highways safer and to establish continuity and trust within the South Carolina Department of Public Safety. We have accomplished this and in the process have strengthened the bond between state and local law enforcement. This ultimately has allowed us to better serve our citizens.

My primary concern at this time lies with the future of this department. I do not believe that any corporation or government entity runs because of an individual or two. Colonel Roark and I have been successful largely because of the dedicated people – both within and outside the agency -- backing us up.

To that end, I ask each of you in the days to come to know that the colonel and I have -- and will continue -- to do everything possible to ensure a smooth transition and to impart the knowledge we have gained to our successors. If I could, I ask each of you to continue your great work and remember the importance of doing the right thing and dealing with adverse situations in a professional and a mature manner.

I will leave SCDPS with a clear conscience and a great hope that what the colonel and I invested will have many good returns for this department in the years to come.

God bless each of you and please accept my sincere gratitude for your support.

Source: CONTACT: SID GAULDEN, 803-600-8119 SCDPS