Statement from Mayor Joseph P. Riley, Jr. – Chief Reuben Greenberg

CHARLESTON, SC – The death of Chief Greenberg causes great sadness to the citizens of our community.  Our city got to know Chief Greenberg not only as our Chief of Police but as our friend.  Chief Greenberg became a national figure due to his creative, energetic and successful leadership of our police department.  His determination to make and keep Charleston safe and his most effective leadership in doing so enhanced the quality of life for every citizen in Charleston.

As one of the first African American police chiefs in our country and certainly in the South, Chief Greenberg became an important symbol of racial progress and achievement.

The 25^th anniversary of Hurricane Hugo reminds us of his extraordinary service during that trying time.  He was committed to making sure our citizens were safe from the hurricane as well as keeping price gougers from preying on homeowners and citizens on the days after this traumatic hurricane.

Chief Greenberg had the knack of seeming to be almost everywhere.  People became accustomed to seeing him assisting with a traffic accident, responding to a call for service at their homes, directing traffic, as well as seeing him on television and hearing him on the radio.  I personally will forever be grateful for his accepting the job of being Police Chief for the City of Charleston and all the extraordinary service he rendered the citizens of our community.  We will miss him very much.