Longtime local law enforcement officer dies at 69

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WSAV) – A longtime local law enforcement officer with 43 years of experience in service died on Saturday.

Robert “Bob” Merriman was 69.

He’s remembered for solving many high-profile cases and for his compassion for crime victims.

According to Merriman’s obituary, his career began in Athens in 1975. Two years later, he moved to the Chatham County Police Department where, in 1981, he became a detective.

In 2004, he moved to Chatham-Savannah Police. He retired as a captain in 2007.

Merriman came out of retirement in 2013 to serve as chief in Thunderbolt and retired five years later.

“Simply put, Merriman was one of the finest cops around,” his obituary reads. “His tenacity and skill as a detective led him to solve the toughest cases, and he treated victims and their families with great dignity and respect.”

Merriman is survived by his wife, son and stepchildren.

A memorial service will be held for Merriman at 10 a.m. Friday at Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel with Rev. Patrick O’Brien officiating. The family will receive friends immediately following the service.

The family suggests you consider donating to a charity of your choice in Merriman’s memory in lieu of flowers.