MCCOLL — Billy Stubbs was hired as the new chief of the McColl Police Dept., but backed out of the job two days later, citing issues with a previously agreed upon sign-on bonus.
“Due to some issues that have arisen, I will not be accepting the Chiefs position,” Stubbs posted on social media. “I try to be a man of my word but expect others to do the same. I want to thank Robert Outlaw for the support and consideration for the job and with heavy heart I have to rescind my employment for the Chief position. I will always do anything I can for the town and the citizens that I love.”
Stubbs said he received a phone call from McColl council member Harry Benjamin, who questioned him about the bonus. Stubbs said he advised Benjamin that it was what was agreed upon with the Mayor and with the knowledge of the council. It was stated they were informed differently regarding the source of the funds.
Stubbs said it was his understanding the sign-on bonus in question was not coming from the Town of McColl police budget, but from a separate set of funds provided by the Love Foundation to assist in restarting the Police Department.
Stubbs said a short time later he spoke with Benjamin who stated that he received confirmation that the bonus funding was not going to be upheld. At that point, Stubbs reached out to Marlboro County Sheriff Larry McNeil to rescind his resignation.
Stubbs said McNeil graciously allowed him to rescind his resignation. He remains at the MCSO.