Public Funds and Private Pleasures: A Close Look at Spartanburg Sheriff’s Extravagant Spending
Some overcast skies decided to pay Spartanburg, South Carolina a visit earlier today. But the real storm brewing is not in the clouds. It’s right here on the ground in the form of sparkle and scandal connected to Sheriff Chuck Wright’s spending habits.
Lately, Sheriff Chuck Wright, of Spartanburg County, splurged a little over a whopping $4,000 on a stay at the high-end Marriott Myrtle Beach Resort & Spa at Grande Dunes. This scenic retreat spot located at the northern edge of the city is known for its plush accommodations, recreational activities, and picturesque views.
However, the question everyone’s asking is: how was such a lavish trip paid for? The answer — from your pockets and mine.
Public Funded Credit Card Exposed!
Our Sheriff’s county-funded credit card, unlike those of many other county employees, is not required to hold onto receipts of expenditure. Using this card, from December 2017 to April 2024, Sheriff Wright has expended a hefty sum exceeding $53,600. These expenses cover a wide array of luxuries ranging between Apple.com, streaming websites, high-end hotels, and gas stations.
While such spending habits might seem perfectly fair to private citizens, for public officials it’s a different ball game. Most of the 140 county employees operating with P-cards face disciplinary action, and even firing, for misuses such as this. For them, buying food, shopping on Amazon, or any other purchase without holding onto a receipt for official purposes comes with the risk of termination.
Where the Money Went
It’s a murky cloud that hangs over the details of Sheriff Wright’s expenditures due to the absence of supporting paperwork like receipts or invoices. His silence on this issue further amplifies the mystery. Among his purchases were visits to local art galleries, contributing to gun stores and fitness outlets, and subscribing to Christian movie-streaming services.
As a public servant, earning close to $199,000 last year, it is his responsibility to ensure that public funds are used judiciously and transparently. That the Sheriff’s card dates back before the onset of the P-cards program in 2006 does little to sweep away the clouds of doubts.
There’s no shortage of stories brewing here in Spartanburg. It’s not all about our Sheriff’s credit card. Woodruff is gearing up for a massive population growth surge in the next five years and planning to add dozens of police officers to its forces. The 31st annual Spartanburg Greek Festival will soon be adding its spice of live music, dancing, and authentic Greek food to our town’s vibrant culture.
While these are all exciting Talking points, let’s not forget to keep an eye on how public money continues to be spent. After all, it’s all coming right from our pockets!
