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Chief Thomas W Griffin

 
Chapin Police Department
Title: Chief of Police
Phone: 803-575-8500


Chief Griffin grew up in Chapin, long before it became the bustling community it is today. He considers it an honor and privilege to give back to the community that played such a pivotal role in shaping his life. He and his wife, along with their two children, proudly call Chapin HOME! While the town’s small-town charm remains, Chapin is no longer a hidden gem, more and more families are choosing to make it their forever home. Longtime residents continue to help shape Chapin into the vibrant, welcoming community it is today, while newcomers are drawn by its quality of life and family-friendly atmosphere. Chapin is no longer just a spot on the map, it’s "THE" spot on the map.

Chief Griffin was appointed as the Chief of Police of the Chapin Police Department in 2021. Since taking the helm, he has successfully managed departmental budgets, personnel, and equipment. With over 20 years of combined service as a Police Officer and a United States Marine, he brings a proven history of leadership, guided by integrity and unwavering commitment to service.

He is a graduate of the FBI National Academy (Session 293), the FBI National Command Course (Session 5), and the FBI Command College. He has earned the Leadership Trilogy Award from FBI-LEEDA for completing the Supervisor, Command, and Executive Leadership Institute programs. Chief Griffin also holds an Undergraduate Certificate in Criminal Justice from the University of Virginia and an Associate Degree in Criminal Justice from Eastern Gateway Community College. Chief Griffin is also a proud graduate of Chapin High School, class of 1999.

Throughout his career, he has received extensive training and served in a variety of roles, including Captain, Patrol Supervisor, Major Crimes Detective/Supervisor, Crisis Negotiator, Field Training Manager, and Training Officer. He holds numerous instructor certifications and is highly skilled in Major Crimes Investigations, Crisis Negotiations, Firearms Handling, Emergency Driving Instruction, Public Safety, Emergency Management, Patrol Operations, and Leadership.

Before entering law enforcement, Chief Griffin served in the United States Marine Corps. He deployed to several locations during his service, including Iraq in 2003, where he advanced to Baghdad during Operation Iraqi Freedom. His military honors include the Navy Achievement Medal, Combat Action Ribbon, Presidential Unit Citation, Navy Meritorious Unit Citation, Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Operation Iraqi Freedom Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service on Medal, and the Sea Service Deployment Ribbon.

The discipline, leadership, and resilience developed during his military service have directly influenced his success in law enforcement. Chief Griffin remains passionate about the profession and values the camaraderie and teamwork that define both military and police service. He is honored to lead the Chapin Police Department and remains committed to making a lasting, positive impact on the community he proudly serves.

 

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