Cayce Welcomes New Police Chief Herbert Blake
CAYCE, SC – Exciting changes are afoot in the City of Cayce as the community welcomes its new Police Chief, Herbert Blake. Stepping into this important role, Blake brings with him an impressive background and over 20 years of experience in law enforcement, following the departure of former Chief Chris Cowan, who has moved on to a position at the University of South Carolina’s School of Law.
A Servant Leader with Deep Roots
In a press conference held this past Tuesday, Chief Blake expressed his enthusiasm about his new position, emphasizing a desire to build upon the successful groundwork laid by those before him. “I look forward to trying to improve on all the accomplishments my predecessors have accomplished,” he stated, showcasing his commitment to the community.
Unlike many leaders who focus solely on command, Blake prefers a more hands-on approach, declaring, “I want to make sure I am more of a teacher and a counselor… I want to empower, encourage, elevate — and I want us to over-communicate as much as we can with other city departments, but also with the community and with each other.”
Experience That Counts
With a career that began as an officer in Ridgeland, Blake hasn’t just risen through the ranks but has also made significant impacts along the way. Most recently, he served as the Chief Deputy of the Buncombe County Sheriff’s Office in Asheville, NC, and previously held leadership roles in both the Hendersonville and Loris Police Departments.
Community Engagement is Key
Understanding the importance of community input, Chief Blake has plans to hold listening sessions in each district of Cayce, working alongside the district councilmen. “To hear from citizens in those communities what those concerns are, and what we need to prioritize as we move forward in protecting the city,” he noted. This suggests a genuine commitment to not just maintaining law and order but fostering a strong, communicative relationship between the police department and the community it serves.
First Impressions Matter
Jim Crosland, Cayce’s Interim City Manager, shared his positive impressions of Chief Blake, recalling their informal meeting over coffee. “You could tell he has a true servant’s heart and he just wants to serve our community,” Crosland said. He observed that Blake’s humility and dedication to mentorship could play a vital role in shaping the department’s future.
A Family Man at Heart
Chief Blake is not just a dedicated leader; he’s also a family man. He and his wife, Linda, have two children and five grandchildren, all of whom attend local schools in Richland County. Caring for the community seems to run in the family, as Blake specifically pointed out the joy he feels being involved in a city that is not only vibrant but also shares similar goals and objectives.
“It’s an absolute pleasure to be in a city of this size and proximity, with the goals and objectives that I think is going to move this community forward in a very positive way,” Blake emphasized, showcasing his optimism for the future of Cayce.
Looking Ahead
As the City of Cayce embarks on this new chapter under Chief Blake’s leadership, residents can feel hopeful about the ongoing commitment to community safety, communication, and inclusivity. With listening sessions on the horizon and a strong foundation of experience, there’s a lot to look forward to in terms of law enforcement in the area.
So, here’s to new beginnings, open ears, and a shared vision for a safer Cayce!
