LORIS, SC (WBTW) – The Loris Police Department is working to expand as the city’s population grows, so Interim Police Chief Gary Buley is creating a five-year plan to accommodate the growth.

Buley said they are looking to add a detective to the police department to handle investigative cases. Right now, he said some of their officers are trying to handle them, but they end up getting more cases on top of the ones they’re already working.

“Having a detective allows that officer to focus more specifically on that case,” said Buley. He also said by having someone who can focus on investigative cases, they are able to solve crimes faster. “If we can solve the case faster, that takes that potential suspect off the street, which stops any progress forward with that suspect.” 

Buley predicts adding a detective will help lower crime in the city.

“That way, we can maybe get them doing two burglaries rather than 10,” explains Buley.

The police department will also purchase three new vehicles this year. Buley said having new cars will help officers get to emergency scenes faster and more safely because the new cars are more reliable.

Buley wants to make room for more police officers in the future and plans to deliver his detailed five-year plan to city council on Friday for review.