Wagener, September 23, 2025
News Summary
Lucas Grant has been appointed as the interim police chief of Wagener, with his term commencing on September 19. This change follows the dismissal of former chief Mark Warchol due to concerns over communication and transparency. Grant has extensive law enforcement experience and a strong commitment to community service, which he emphasizes as a priority in his new role. The town has also seen recent changes in its emergency services leadership, reflecting ongoing adjustments within the community.
Wagener
Lucas Grant has been appointed as the interim police chief of Wagener, starting on September 19, 2024. Grant’s appointment follows the firing of former police chief Mark Warchol, who was dismissed on September 15, due to disagreements concerning communication and transparency issues within the police department.
The decision to appoint Grant was made at the request of Wagener Mayor Mike Miller. Grant brings a wealth of experience in law enforcement to his new role, having previously served as the resource officer at Wagener-Salley High School. In addition to his current position, he is a Democratic candidate for Aiken County Sheriff in the upcoming 2024 elections.
Grant’s academic background includes a bachelor’s degree in science from Newberry College. He has an extensive law enforcement career, with years of service in Georgia where he worked as a division commander at the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office. His experience encompasses various roles including work in the criminal investigation division, road patrol, jail operations, gang unit, special operations, housing, and community service divisions.
Changes in Wagener’s Emergency Services
Grant succeeds Mark Warchol after the Wagener Town Council voted 3-2 in favor of Warchol’s dismissal during a contentious council meeting. Alongside this leadership change in the police department, Wagener recently appointed Hendrik Swanepoel as the new fire chief, reflecting ongoing adjustments within the town’s emergency services. Additionally, there are legal actions pending against two former fire chiefs related to breaches of trust.
Commitment to Community Service
As he takes on the role of interim police chief, Grant has expressed a strong commitment to serving the Wagener community. His campaign for sheriff outlines his values, including a dedication to community service and personal interests such as fishing, hunting, and coaching softball. Grant identifies himself as “a man of God first,” and is driven by a passion for serving people.
Wagener’s Background
Wagener, located in eastern Aiken County, began as a railroad town and has since developed a significant agricultural focus, including equestrian facilities. The recent leadership changes in the town’s emergency services highlight a focal point for enhancing community safety and responsiveness in public service.
Conclusion
The appointment of Lucas Grant as interim police chief presents a new chapter for the Wagener police department amid significant changes in the town’s emergency services framework. With his extensive law enforcement background and community-oriented approach, Grant is poised to lead the department during this transitional period.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the new interim police chief of Wagener?
Lucas Grant is now Wagener’s interim police chief, a position he took on September 19, 2024.
What was the reason for Mark Warchol’s dismissal?
Mark Warchol was fired on September 15, 2024, due to disagreements regarding communication and transparency related to the police department.
What prior experience does Lucas Grant have?
Grant has extensive law enforcement experience, including years of service in Georgia as a division commander in the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office. His previous roles included work in the criminal investigation division, road patrol, the jail, the gang unit, special ops, housing, and the community service division.
What education does Lucas Grant have?
Grant holds a bachelor’s degree in science from Newberry College.
What is Lucas Grant’s position regarding the community?
Grant emphasized his commitment to the community and expressed readiness to serve as interim chief.
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Key Features Overview
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| New Role | Lucas Grant appointed as interim police chief of Wagener. |
| Effective Date | September 19, 2024. |
| Previous Appointment | Grant served as the resource officer at Wagener-Salley High School. |
| Background Experience | Experience in law enforcement, including various roles in the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office. |
| Education | Bachelor’s degree in science from Newberry College. |
| Community Focus | Strong commitment to serve the Wagener community. |
| Recent Events | Dismissal of Mark Warchol and appointment of Hendrik Swanepoel as fire chief. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Aiken County Authorities Investigate Accidental Shooting Involving Toddler
Additional Resources
- Post and Courier: Lucas Grant Appointed as Interim Police Chief of Wagener
- Augusta Press: Lucas Grant Joins GOP and Pledges Continued Service
- Augusta Press: Aiken Sheriff’s Race Overview
- Post and Courier: Lucas Grant Aiken County Sheriff Candidate
- Post and Courier: Milo K9 Therapy Dog at Busbee Elementary School
- Wikipedia: Wagener, South Carolina
- Google Search: Wagener
- Google Scholar: Lucas Grant
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Wagener
- Google News: Lucas Grant
Author: STAFF HERE AIKEN
The AIKEN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAiken.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Aiken, Aiken County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Aiken Horse Show, Aiken Bluegrass Festival, and polo matches at Whitney Field. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Aiken Chamber of Commerce and the Aiken County Historical Museum, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and tourism that power the local economy such as Bridgestone and the Aiken County Visitors Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
