TIMMONSVILLE, SC (WBTW) – Former Timmonsville Police Chief Timothy Swinton was found dead outside his home on Hollyberry Lane in Timmonsville on Sunday, according to Florence County Coroner Keith VonLutcken. He was 60 years old.
Lamar Police Chief Charles Woodle tells News13 that Swinton was most recently employed as a Lieutenant with the Lamar Police Department. He will be remembered for his more than 25 years of law enforcement service in Florence and Darlington Counties.
Chief Woodle said Swinton began his career with Lamar police in 1989, leaving to work in his hometown of Timmonsville in 1990. Swinton returned to Lamar Police in 2003 and remained there until his death.
Woodle recalls his friend and law enforcement brother as an excellent police officer.
“It shocked me when I heard,” Woodle said. “He was a dependable officer, a great man who will be greatly missed.”
Chief Woodle said Swinton was looking forward to retiring soon and enjoying more time with family and friends.
VonLutken said he did not suspect that foul play was involved. An autopsy performed Monday at MUSC showed that Swinton died of natural causes.
Friends of Swinton have set up a GoFundMe page in order to help with funeral costs.
