Letter to Editor: Berkeley Co. Councilman Tommy Newell on Sheriff Wayne DeWitt

Good Evening,

In light of the recent protests of Sheriff DeWitt, I would like to say that I have a personal opinion on the
situation at hand, but as a Councilman I will represent all of my constituents to the best of my ability.

Pictured Left to Right: Berkeley Co. Councilman Tommy Newell and Sheriff Wayne DeWitt

Rather than express my opinion, I am determined to maintain my objectivity and represent the opinions of
my constituents.

I have heard you all. From those pleading for fairness and mercy, to those who wish the
Council to take action in whatever manner is within our power to remove him from office.

I feel it is very important for the people of Berkeley County to understand that I have investigated thoroughly to
determine the council’s rights, responsibilities and powers in this matter and have found that we have no
power to punish, nor any influence in the proceedings except to direct our constituents on the best avenues
for them to pursue to ensure their voices are heard.

And I absolutely applaud the folks that are exercising their Constitutional rights to protest and make their opinions known. It is a right and a duty that is not used often enough.

However, in light of the protest taking place at our doorstep this evening, I felt it was important to
acknowledge that protest and let it be known that according to the research that I have done on this
matter, that just as our Governor has done, for the time being, I have to place my trust in the courts that
this matter will be handled appropriately.

Sincerely yours,

Tommy Newell

*Note: Letters to the Editor do not represent endorsements by ‘The Berkeley Observer.’