Special to the Herald

Effingham County’s three police chiefs — Chief Kelphie Lundy of the Guyton Police Department, Chief James Woodcock of the Springfield Police Department, and Chief Jonathon Murrell of the Rincon Police Department — were officially sworn into each other’s agencies in a display of unity and cooperation. The ceremony took place April 28 at the Effingham County Courthouse with Effingham County Probate Judge David Zittrouer administering the oaths.

This event marks the first time in county history that the chiefs of Guyton, Springfield, and Rincon have been simultaneously sworn in — not only as leaders of their own departments, but also as official members of each other's agencies. The joint swearing-in is a bold step forward and a clear commitment to interagency collaboration, mutual trust, and the shared mission of serving and protecting all of Effingham County.

“This is a huge milestone for our departments,” the three chiefs stated. “This moment shows the public that we’re not working in isolation. We’re standing side by side, unified, and committed to working as one team across jurisdictional lines.”

In addition to this interagency partnership, the three municipal police departments continue to work closely with the Effingham County Sheriff's Office. All three departments express their full support for Sheriff Jimmy McDuffie, whose leadership, guidance, and collaboration have been instrumental in their ongoing success. His influence and experience are vital assets that help ensure seamless law enforcement across the entire county.

The decision to formalize this partnership through a shared oath of service is a new and forward-thinking approach, reflecting the evolving needs of public safety in a growing county. With strengthened ties and a collective leadership structure, the departments are better positioned to support one another, respond more efficiently, and present a united front in both community engagement and emergency response.