5 Major Changes And Updates At The Fort Mill Police Department That Are Defining 2025
The Fort Mill Police Department (FMPD) is currently undergoing one of its most significant periods of transformation in recent history, marked by a change in leadership and a massive physical relocation. As of December 19, 2025, the department is fully operational in its new state-of-the-art headquarters, solidifying its commitment to a modern, community-oriented policing strategy for the growing town of Fort Mill, South Carolina.
This article provides an in-depth look at the major shifts defining the FMPD’s operations in 2025, from the new command structure under Chief Bryan Zachary to the statistical data confirming Fort Mill’s status as one of the safest towns in the state. These changes are designed to enhance public safety, improve officer efficiency, and foster stronger relationships between law enforcement and the residents of York County.
New Leadership and The Legacy of Chief Jeff Helms
The transition in leadership at the Fort Mill Police Department is a central focus of its 2025 updates. The long-serving and respected Chief Jeff Helms retired, paving the way for a new era under a familiar face in the department.
Biography of Fort Mill Police Leadership
- Chief Bryan Zachary (Current Chief)
- Title: Police Chief, Fort Mill Police Department (FMPD)
- Former Rank: Major (Maj.) in the Fort Mill Police Department
- Appointment: Selected by the Town of Fort Mill to replace the retiring Chief Helms.
- Focus: Represents a continuation of professional, community-focused law enforcement, having been a key figure within the department prior to his promotion.
- Chief Jeffrey Stuart "Jeff" Helms (Retired Chief)
- Tenure: Served for 27 years as the town's Police Chief, the longest tenure in Fort Mill's history.
- Career: Spent almost four decades in law enforcement.
- Recognition: Honored by the South Carolina Governor and the South Carolina House of Representatives (Bill 4638) upon his retirement for his decades of service.
- Legacy: Oversaw the department's growth and its commitment to community policing strategies.
The appointment of Chief Bryan Zachary signals a commitment to seamless continuity and a progressive approach to law enforcement. His prior experience as Major provides a deep understanding of the town's unique needs, ensuring the FMPD remains a highly professional full-service law enforcement agency.
The Massive Headquarters Relocation: A New Era in Town Hall
The most visible and significant operational change for the FMPD in 2025 was the relocation of its headquarters. This strategic move is part of the Town of Fort Mill’s broader effort to enhance municipal services and modernize its infrastructure.
The Fort Mill Police Department officially relocated its headquarters to a new office space inside the remodeled Town of Fort Mill's new Town Hall building. This move was completed around April 21, 2025, marking a new chapter for the department. The new facility, located on North White Street, is designed to enhance the department's ongoing efforts to improve its functionality and accessibility to the public.
This central location is more than just a change of address; it represents an investment in the department’s future. Consolidating the police headquarters within the new Town Hall streamlines coordination with other town departments and provides a modern, efficient workspace for the FMPD’s 72 sworn police officers and support staff.
The Impact of the New Solicitation Ordinance
Further demonstrating the town's commitment to safety and privacy, a new solicitation ordinance went into effect on November 1, 2025. This ordinance, managed in part by the FMPD, is a direct response to community concerns and is designed to promote privacy, safety, and transparency for residents. It regulates how door-to-door sales and outreach are conducted, ensuring residents' rights are respected while still allowing for legitimate community outreach.
Fort Mill's Crime Landscape and Community-Oriented Policing
The ultimate measure of a police department’s success is its impact on public safety. The FMPD’s dedication to a community-oriented policing strategy continues to yield positive results, cementing Fort Mill’s reputation as a safe place to live and work.
Current Crime Statistics and Safety Ranking
According to recent data, Fort Mill ranks highly for safety in South Carolina. For 2025, the town was recognized as one of the safest communities in the state, often ranking near the top alongside neighboring areas like Tega Cay and Clover.
- Violent Crime Rate: A remarkably low 0.8 per 1,000 residents.
- Property Crime Rate: Approximately 6.1 per 1,000 residents.
- Overall Safety: Fort Mill ranks second statewide in safety for 2025.
While the overall statistics are favorable, the FMPD remains vigilant. Recent high-profile incidents, such as the armed robbery of a Burger King (with the suspect arrested in Rock Hill) and a tragic homicide (the first in Fort Mill in 2025) involving a 13-year-old, underscore the critical role of the Criminal Investigations Division and the need for ongoing crime prevention efforts.
Key Community Programs Driving FMPD's Success
The FMPD’s mission is to enhance the quality of life and reduce crime through proactive engagement. Its robust Community Outreach Program is the backbone of this strategy, offering numerous ways for citizens to partner with law enforcement.
These initiatives are crucial for building trust, sharing information, and reinforcing the town's safety net. By involving citizens, the police department supports all areas of the community and offers a wide range of opportunities designed to involve Fort Mill residents directly in public safety.
List of FMPD Community Initiatives (Entities)
The following programs are central to the FMPD's community-oriented policing model:
- Do the Right Thing (DTRT): A program specifically designed to recognize and reward young people who make positive choices and contribute to the community.
- Alive at 25: A defensive driving course aimed at young drivers to promote safety and reduce traffic incidents among the town’s youth.
- Neighborhood Watch Programs: Initiatives that empower residents to work directly with officers to monitor and report suspicious activity in their residential areas.
- Youth Mentoring Programs: Structured programs where officers serve as mentors to local youth, building positive relationships and providing guidance.
- Medicine Drop-Off: A vital public service that allows residents to safely and anonymously dispose of unused or expired prescription medications, preventing drug abuse and environmental contamination.
- Crime Stoppers of York County, Inc.: Although a county-wide program, the FMPD actively promotes this service, which allows citizens to submit anonymous tips about crimes.
By focusing on these core areas—new leadership, modern facilities, low crime rates, and deep community engagement—the Fort Mill Police Department is well-positioned to meet the challenges of a rapidly growing town and continue its mission to make Fort Mill the safest town in South Carolina.
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