COLUMBIA — Governor Henry McMaster held the second annual Governor’s Law Enforcement Officer of the Year Ceremony today in Columbia, to publicly commend exceptional law enforcement professionals statewide. In total, 13 finalists were selected from the nominations of various state, county, and municipal agencies. One winner was named in each of the three categories during the ceremony and awarded $10,000 as part of the Governor’s Law Enforcement Officer of the Year Award program, for which SCDPS is the program administrator.
"Today we recognized the best of the best in South Carolina law enforcement," Governor Henry McMaster said. "These outstanding men and women are the finest in the profession, and I admire their commitment to service and duty. The people of South Carolina are truly fortunate to have such dedicated professionals protecting them every day."
The South Carolina Department of Public Safety was named as the program administrator of the Governor’s Law Enforcement Officer of the Year Award program. As outlined in Proviso 63.10, which comes from the state budget, an advisory committee was established with members appointed by Governor McMaster. The committee includes law enforcement leaders who review and select winners in the three categories mentioned for their professionalism, dedication to duty, community service, valor, and innovation in the profession.
“Our agency is delighted to serve as public administrator of this program once again,” said SCDPS Director, Robert G. Woods IV. “The officers recognized here today set the standard for law enforcement personnel across the state and in generations to come. Hearing these triumphant, heartfelt stories of bravery and compassion is humbling and inspiring.”
The awards were presented to law enforcement professionals in three categories during the ceremony. Click each photo for the winner's portraits.
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, 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.
