The Town of South Congaree announced Friday that Police Chief Steven Jonas has retired.

Chief Jonas came to work for the Town of South Congaree in August 2002. He was appointed Police Chief in August of 2024.

Jonas served in the United States Marine Corps from 1991 to 1996.

H =e also worked with the Department of Corrections, Bureau of Protective Services, SC Highway Patrol, and Town of Lexington Police before his 23 years in South Congaree.

Jonas was involved in a two-car crash in the City of Columbia in August after suffering a medical event or mini-stroke, according to the SC highway Patrol.

South Carolina Highway Patrol officials say a South Congaree Police Dodge Charger, travelling east on South Beltline Blvd, crossed the centerline of the road and struck a GMC Terrain travelling west.

Chief Jones was placed on administrative leave due to standard protocol while the South Carolina Highway Patrol investigated the crash.