Atlantic Beach Interim Police Chief Takes Over Ahead of Bikefest

Police chief preparing for event

Atlantic Beach Interim Police Chief Takes Over Ahead of Bikefest

New Atlantic Beach Police Chief Gets Ready for Bikefest

Atlantic Beach, South Carolina, has a new interim police chief in place as preparation for the annual Bikefest continues. Officer Carlos Castillo was recently sworn in, as the former police chief, Quentin Robinson, is currently on administrative leave following an arrest last month.

“I love it here. It’s an amazing atmosphere, and we’re striving to get better,” said Castillo, a new addition to the department since 2022. Even before joining the Atlantic Beach Police Department, Castillo had a storied career in law enforcement, having served in various departments. Presently, Officer Castillo is supervising two other officers in the department.

Atlantic Beach Ready for Bikefest

Atlantic Beach BikeFest, a major annual event, is only a few days away, and Castillo is confident that the town will handle the festival seamlessly with help from other agencies. He said, “We have a mutual aid agreement with the Lake City Police Department. We also expect support from departments like SLED, Highway Patrol, Parole, and DNR.”

Councilman John David expressed his full support for Castillo in his new role, stating, “I have full confidence in his ability to do a fine job to get us through bike week. We will keep moving forward as a town working together.”

Road Safety Advice for Attendees

In the lead-up to the Bikefest, Officer Castillo has an important message for both drivers and bikers heading to Atlantic Beach. “Make sure you look over your shoulder. Make sure the lanes are clear before changing lanes. And also watch out for pedestrians crossing Highway 17,” he cautioned.

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