Loftis Sworn In As Sheriff

Greenville County Sheriff Steve Loftis said he still finds himself feeling just a little "weird" when he walks into his office, roughly 11 years after he took over for Sam Simmons, who, just a year into his stint as the new sheriff, died suddenly of a massive heart attack. 

"He was a great man. A great Christian man," Loftis said Monday as he was sworn in for another term as Greenville County Sheriff. "I don't know if we will ever get over it."

Loftis thanked his family, friends, supporters and officers he supervises for their continued encouragement and support after he was sworn in for another four-year term during the ceremony Monday afternoon held at Greenville County Council Chambers, vowing to continue to represent the people who elected him with integrity. 

"I promise you that over the next four years - and who knows what may happen after that - I will continue to serve Greenville County, because this is my home. I've raised a family here in Greenville, and promise you we will do our best to ensure that Greenville County is a safe place to live, to work and to raise a family." 

Loftis, who joined the GCSO in the 1970's after transferring from the Anderson Police Department, was suddenly thrust into the position 11 years ago after the the unexpected passing of the 49-year-old Simmons, who had been elected to replace retiring Johnny Mack Brown. Loftis said Brown, who served as sheriff for more than two decades, has served as a mentor to him over the years. 

Brown remembers Loftis as a stellar law enforcement officer who steadily rose to prominence. 

"He became someone you recognized as more than just a deputy," Brown said. "Steve possessed those qualities that you look for in a leader." 

"I told him (when he became sheriff) I'd be there if he needed me," Brown added. "Every now and then he'll call me and say 'boss, put on your thinking cap,' and ask me a question.'" 

Loftis, whose only competition in November's election was a write-in candidacy by Dexter Reeves, admitted the last 11 years have been a learning experience for him. 

"Eleven years ago I went from having one boss to 451,000 bosses, "Loftis said. "I thought I knew what I was getting into, but I'm here to tell you I didn't have a clue. So it has been an education the past 11 years."

Brian Turner, the Mauldin Police Chief, praised Loftis and the GCSO for being able to work so well with other agencies like his. 

"I've been involved here for about six years, and when I first got here, he was the one who first approached me," Turner said. "He's been a good mentor in a lot of ways. Our guys and girls have a great relationship with them (GCSO)."

After Loftis completes this term, he will have served as the Sheriff for 15 years - something he admits he never saw coming. 

"Most of you know me well enough that I was never the aspiring politician or really had any desire to be Sheriff," Loftis said. "But I'm blessed. I love my job."