The Hinesville Police Department is searching for a new leader, following the retirement of Chief Lloyd Slater.

Slater announced his retirement late Monday afternoon, bringing to close nearly 40 years of law enforcement.

“It has been an absolute honor and privilege to have served this great city as your police chief, but after 37 years of public service, my journey in this noble profession is coming to an end,” Slater said in a letter to City Manager Kenneth Howard and Mayor Karl Riles. “My career as a law enforcement officer has been blessed beyond measure. The most rewarding period has been the past three years as police chief, where I have seen and experienced some of the most complex and challenging moments of my life.”

Slater has been the HPD chief since February 2021. Slater was named assistant police chief and promoted o major in August 2018.

“Over the course of those three years, our agency has undergone a major transformation and has evolved into the one of the most innovative, progressive and professional law enforcement agencies in the state,” Slater said. “None of which would have possible without the support and dedication of my exceptional staff. Together, we were able to overcome countless obstacles and achieve many great milestones. I am especially grateful to have served in a caring and supportive community that I will continue to call my home.”

Originally from Brooklyn, N.Y., Slater was a member of the 1/75 Ranger Battalion and joined the HPD in 1986. He has been the emergency services dive unit commander, field training officer program manager, a watch commander and the uniform patrol division commander.

He holds a bachelor’s degree in business management and a master’s degree in public safety administration from Columbus State University and is a graduate of the Georgia Law Enforcement Command College. He has nine Georgia Peace Officer Standards and Training instructor certifications, and a P.O.S.T. managerial certification. He has written articles on a variety of topics and has been published in Police Chief magazine.

Slater, the first Black chief for the HPD, said the staff he leaves behind is ready to take over once he turns in his badge. The department has about 90 uniformed officers and approximately 25 support personnel.

“I take great comfort and pride in knowing that we have succeeded in preparing the next generation of leaders for the Hinesville Police Department who stand ready to protect our city and our future,” he said.

The city is taking applications for chief through February 19. Slater’s last day on the job is set for March 29. In his letter to Howard and Mayor Riles, he said he reflected on his career over the last several months and realized this was the right time to step away.

“I am extremely thankful and blessed for the amazing people who have supported and believed in me,” he said. “Although my appointment to chief made history, I never intended to be the first, but if given the opportunity, I simply wanted to be the best. Hopefully, I have achieved that goal.”