Laurens Mayor Announces Promotion of Captain Heath Copeland to Chief of Police

Laurens Mayor Nathan Senn addressed the press on Tuesday morning to unveil a significant decision for the Laurens Police Department. Mayor Senn announced the promotion of Captain Heath Copeland to the esteemed position of Chief of Police. This announcement came in light of the resignation of former Chief Keith Grounsell, effective March 6, 2024.

Chief Grounsell had assumed his role as Chief of Police in late July 2022, succeeding the previous chief, Chrissie Latimore, who had been appointed as the U.S. Marshal for the District of South Carolina by President Joe Biden.

In the interim period of transition, Mayor Senn designated Captain Heath Copeland as the Acting Chief of Police. Mayor Senn emphasized the significance of this appointment, highlighting the commitment of the city to cultivate leaders within its police force.

“This appointment is a significant demonstration of our ongoing commitment to developing leaders within our police department,” Mayor Senn stated. “While there are times when fresh ideas and outside perspective may be useful or necessary, our goal is to invest in our own officers, providing them with opportunities and the support they need to grow. Chief Copeland’s appointment is a prime example of this goal put in practice.”

Mayor Senn underscored the importance of meritocracy in the selection process, stating, “Longevity does not also ensure one is the best qualified to serve in a higher position, and it is critical that we have the best qualified individuals we can when it comes to serving the public, especially in such a critical role.”

Expressing confidence in Chief Copeland’s abilities, Mayor Senn remarked, “I am confident that Chief Copeland is the right person for the job, not simply because of his time in service but because of his qualifications, his experience, his approach to law enforcement, and his heart.”

Chief Copeland, who has dedicated nearly 24 years of service to the Laurens Police Department, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve. “My family and spending time with them is very important to me,” Chief Copeland said. “The Laurens Police Department is part of my family too, and I want the same for them.”

Acknowledging the challenges ahead, Chief Copeland emphasized the importance of teamwork. “As the chief, I will need to look at things from a different perspective, not trying to do everything myself but working together with the strong team in place in the Laurens Police Department,” he said.

Chief Copeland continued, “I am deeply honored, filled with excitement and overflowing pride to embark on this new role. My love for this city and our agency fuels my commitment to serve as long as the Lord allows me. As we take this journey forward, I carry with me the memories of our past, never forgetting where we have been. I am immensely proud of each individual here and feel both honored and humbled to be your Chief of this great city and remarkable agency.”

In concluding his remarks, Mayor Senn reflected on the legacy of the Laurens Police Department which was established in 1877 and expressed confidence in Chief Copeland’s leadership. “Chief Copeland’s willingness to step into this critical position reflects his proven commitment to our City, and the citizens of Laurens,” Mayor Senn stated. “His path to this position – and it truly is a journey – has allowed him to build trust and relationships with community leaders, non-profit organizations, local businesses and churches, school leaders, and citizens from every walk of life.”

As Chief Copeland assumes his new role, the City of Laurens looks forward to continued progress and prosperity under his leadership, preserving the best traditions of the Police Department and fostering a community where every citizen feels s and safe and supported.