NORTH MYRTLE BEACH, SC (WBTW) – North Myrtle Beach has named a new police chief, who will take office in May.
Greg Purden has been announced as the new North Myrtle Beach Police Chief, according to a press release from the City of North Myrtle Beach. Purden has 33 years of experience in law enforcement, and previously worked with the West Melbourne, Florida Police Department and the Brevard County, Florida Sheriff’s Office.
“His most recent position was as commander of operational services where he oversaw the largest and busiest area of Brevard County, serving a population of over 200,000,” said the release. During his career, Purden has worked as a patrol deputy, field training officer, dive team member, and in other positions.
“We are excited to have Greg on our team,” said North Myrtle Beach Public Safety Director Jay Fernandez in the release. “He has great depth of experience, solid training and credentials, is a fine and personable communicator and, importantly, he’s a natural fit for our department.”
Purden has a bachelor’s degree from Columbia College in Missouri, the release also said. He graduated from the FBI National Academy and the Southern Police Institute 39th Command Officers Development Course.
