Richmond Hill police chief retires after leading department for nearly a decade

RICHMOND HILL, Ga. (WTOC) - Richmond Hill Police Department’s leader hung up his badge Friday. Chief Raymond “Mitch” Shores retired after running the department for nearly a decade.

“It’s a blessing to get the opportunity and privileged to be the chief of police in what I call my hometown,” said Shores.

Shores has lived in Richmond Hill nearly as long as he’s been a police officer.

This past September, he celebrated 34 years in the field, with most of that time spent at the Savannah and Richmond Hill police departments.

Shores was already considering retirement before taking one last position as chief almost a decade ago.

“It just felt like home would be the best way to describe it,” said Shores.

In December, Shores announced his retirement on the department’s Facebook page, and support from the community quickly poured in.

The post garnered more than 550 reactions and over 130 comments, which Shores says made him both proud and humble.

“It just really touched my heart, you know. It made me proud to be a part of it to be a part of this community,” said Shores.

Friday marks Shores’ last day with the department, which he’s been steadily preparing for.

When searching for someone to lead in his absence, Shores quickly turned to an officer he’s worked with for the last two decades—Major Cary Hill.

“He’s super qualified, and his character is impeccable. And there are some people that have already come here to Richmond Hill PD to work for him because they worked for him in Savannah,” said Shores.

City leaders have the final say on Shores’ replacement, and a decision has yet to be made.

In the meantime, Shores is confident that Interim Chief Hill will continue building relationships with the community and running the department efficiently.

The former chief plans to focus on life beyond the badge in his retirement, which includes teaching Sunday school and surrounding himself with family.

“I’m going to probably take a couple months and just kind of cool my jets and just relax a little bit, maybe spend a little more time with my grandkids,” said Shores.