Additional photos from today’s ceremony will be posted on SCDPS Facebook.
COLUMBIA – The South Carolina Department of Public Safety held graduation ceremonies today for 40 SC Highway Patrol troopers from Basic Classes 110 and 111.
University of South Carolina President Bob Caslen was the keynote speaker.
“It is an honor and a privilege to recognize these individuals as they begin their careers as officers of the South Carolina Highway Patrol,” Caslen said. “There is no higher calling than public service, and our community stands in appreciation of their sacrifice and dedication.”
The graduates of Basic 110 and Basic 111 bring the total number of troopers in South Carolina to 805 (including today’s graduates and 39 in training). Seven of today's graduates were prior-certified officers. Troopers are assigned to areas based on population, calls for service, and the number of licensed drivers/registered vehicles in an area. The troopers from Basic 110 and 111 are designated to the counties found in the link above.
SCDPS Director Leroy Smith spoke to the graduates:
“You represent cities and towns from around our great state and beyond,” said SCDPS Director Leroy Smith. “You bring new ideas, new promises, and new enthusiasm to an institution steeped in tradition but constantly evolving to meet a changing world.”
SCHP Col. Chris Williamson reminded graduates that their oath of office represents “a noble and challenging undertaking that not everyone is equipped to take.” “The words you will recite are a reminder that law enforcement holds the public trust,” Williamson said. “We act with the authority afforded us by the people we have pledged to serve and protect.”
Special awards from Basic Classes 110 and 111 include:
Colonel P.F. Thompson Outstanding Achievement Award: For the trooper who displays the character and dedication symbolic of former Highway Patrol Colonel P.F. Thompson, the longest serving Patrol commander. Basic 110: Jason T. Toler, Hometown: Chesterfield; Assignment: Chesterfield/Lancaster; Basic 111: Ian W. Hughes, Hometown: Spartanburg; Assignment: Spartanburg.
Captain Cecil Dilworth Marksmanship Award: Presented to the trooper who demonstrated the best marksmanship during firearms training. Basic 110: Trooper Jason C. Nichols,Hometown: Chester; Assignment: Chester/Fairfield; Basic 111: Jeffrey W. Griffeth; Hometown: Greenville; Assignment: Greenville.
Major Israel Brooks Jr. Physical Fitness Award: Presented to the trooper who excelled on the physical training test and each day during the early morning exercises. Basic 110: Adam J. Gordy; Hometown: Beaufort, Assignment: Jasper/Beaufort; Basic 111: Derald W. Black, Hometown: Spartanburg; Assignment: Spartanburg.
The South Carolina Department of Public Safety includes the Highway Patrol, State Transport Police, Bureau of Protective Services, Office of Highway Safety and Justice Programs, Immigration Enforcement Unit and the South Carolina Law Enforcement Officers Hall of Fame. Our mission is to ensure public safety by protecting and serving the people of South Carolina and its visitors.
Columbia — The South Carolina Department of Public Safety announces a preliminary number of six persons killed on South Carolina roadways beginning Friday, October 30, at 6:00 p.m. through Sunday, November 1, at 11:59 p.m.
For additional data on traffic fatalities by county, please view the most recent year-to-date fatality report on our website.*
Columbia — The South Carolina Law Enforcement Officers Hall of Fame held an induction ceremony today to recognize 13 South Carolina law enforcement professionals for their exemplary service to the law enforcement profession.
For Immediate Release October 26, 2026 Contact: Your local Highway Patrol Community Relations Officer, 803-896-8144
Columbia — The South Carolina Department of Public Safety announces a preliminary number of seven persons killed on South Carolina roadways beginning Friday, October 23, at 6:00 p.m. through Sunday, October 25, at 11:59 p.m.
For additional data on traffic fatalities by county, please view the most recent year-to-date fatality report on our website.*
COLUMBIA, S.C. – South Carolina’s education and public safety leaders are joining forces to deliver a critical message to drivers: safe rides for our everyday heroes. One careless decision can change lives forever — and there are no second chances.
