HAMLET — James Carsto has dropped the word “interim” from his title after being officially named chief of the Hamlet Police Department.
The city posted the news to its Facebook page the morning of Nov. 7, saying Carsto’s appointment came following “a thorough selection process and unanimous support from City leadership.”
“Chief Carsto’s leadership is defined by sincerity, integrity, and a genuine passion to protect and serve our community,” reads the post. “He leads with humility and purpose, embodying what it truly means to wear the badge with honor and authenticity.
“His dedication to transparency, accountability, and community policing has helped restore confidence in the Hamlet Police Department and re-energize the organization from within.”
Carsto — who joined HPD in October of 2023 as a lieutenant over investigations — was appointed interim chief in July following the termination of Dennis Brown.
Starting his law enforcement career in Estes Park, Colorado in 2001, Carsto moved to South Carolina and joined the Rock Hill Police Department, where he worked from 2005-2021.
Carsto retired and ran his own business before returning to law enforcement at HPD.
“During his tenure,” the post concludes, “he has exceeded every expectation through his professionalism, vision, and commitment to excellence.”
