Hometown Public Servant: Richard Peacock

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This week’s Hometown Public Servant is Captain Richard Peacock with the Swainsboro Police Department.
Captain Peacock has been a resident of Swainsboro since moving to the area with his parents at the age of three-years old. Following high school graduation, he was enlisted in the military for a short period of time before returning home to further his education. He attended Swainsboro Tech, pursuing an electrician degree before stumbling upon his career as a law enforcement officer.
“Growing up, I remember always being amazed by the lights and sirens of police vehicles and wondering what was going on. I didn’t have a goal to become an officer when I was old enough to do so. In fact, I didn’t know what I wanted to do, but I’m glad I made the decision to work in law enforcement,” Captain Peacock stated.
Captain Peacock began his career with the Swainsboro Police Department in 1982 as a patrol officer. Within his first year with SPD, Peacock ranked his way up to sgt. detective effective September 1, 1992. On March 5, 2021, he received another promotion, being his most recent rank as captain.
Did you know: September 2021 will mark 40 years since Captain Peacock began his career with the Swainsboro Police Department.
Fun fact: Each year, LEOs are required to complete 20 hours of training on top or working regular shift hours. Since the beginning of his career to current day, Captain Peacock has completed a grand total of 1,596 hours in training.
“It was surprising that I received this promotion,” Captain Peacock stated, “I was and still am very appreciative of it. It means a lot to me.”
Working in law enforcement, Captain Peacock says his most enjoyable part about his position is serving the local community by ensuring crimes are solved and crime rates remain at a low. For this to actually take place, law enforcement rely on assistance from the public so that investigations can be solved. In order to form that bond of trust with locals, Captain Peacock’s strategy is simple – treat others with the same respect you wish to receive.
“I’ve always treated others the way I want to be treated. I’ve never passed judgement, regardless of what someone did,” he commented.
Instead of condemning others, Peacock took the opportunity to help when possible which has aided in building companionship with locals.
Since becoming an employee of the Swainsboro Police Department, Peacock has worked under the direction of four chiefs, Ken Daniels, Smith Edenfield, Johnny Shuman, and current Swainsboro Police Chief Randy Ellison.
When asked if he would like to address anything to the local community, Captain Peacock stated the following:
“I wish to see the community be more involved. I encourage members in the community to get involved and get to know the local law enforcement officers. When and if they do, they’ll realize there are a lot of good officers who care about this community. I think we have a department that this town should be proud of. Not only our department, but the Emanuel County Sheriff’s Office too. I enjoy Swainsboro.. It’s a great community with a great support system. I know this to be true because I was once a recipient of community support and I’ll never forget the support that I received. I love Swainsboro and the people in it,” Captain Peacock concluded.
Peacock is the son of Bobby and Kay Peacock. He was happily married for 30 years. From this union came one son, Benjamin Clay Peacock, age 34.