DARLINGTON, SC (WMBF) -- Shortly after winning re-election as the Sheriff of Darlington County, Wayne Byrd sent termination letters to some of his deputies Tuesday night.
Sheriff Byrd said early Wednesday afternoon he ended the employment of five deputies, but he said a few others may also be let go.
Byrd said he suspected the five deputies were guilty of misusing at least one computer in the sheriff's office.
When asked if the terminations had anything to do with problems of loyalty by the deputies, Byrd said his position is a political office and as a result he needs to have employees he feels he can fully trust.
The deputies returned their patrol cars and other equipment, including firearms, to the sheriff's office Wednesday afternoon.
Over the phone earlier in the day, one of the deputies, Lt. Mike Hall, said he was surprised by his termination. Hall said he had worked in the sheriff's office for 21 years.
Hall said he believed he was fired based on hearsay that he supported Byrd's opponent Charles Woodle in the election. However, Hall said he kept his opinions about the race to himself. He also said he did not support Woodle and that he actually supported Byrd and asked people to vote for Byrd. Hall said he hoped to talk with Byrd to try to get his job back.
Charles Woodle, who is currently Lamar Police Chief, could not be reached for comment Wednesday because the number listed for the police department was no longer in service. However, Woodle called WMBF News early Wednesday evening to say he does not know the deputies who were fired. He said the deputies were not his supporters.
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