Mikey Buchanan is not your typical 18-year-old. While many of his peers are working in fast food or trying to figure out their next step, Buchanan has already secured a career with the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department. Straight out of high school, he found himself on a path of public service, one that has provided stability, personal growth and a sense of purpose.
“I graduated last year in May, and then that September right after graduating, I’ve got a career straight out of high school,” Buchanan said. “Most people I know, they’re working fast food.”
Buchanan is part of LCSD’s team at the Lexington County Detention Center. The experience has given him more than just a paycheck, it’s provided invaluable life lessons and a strong support system among his fellow officers.
“Definitely the people, the officers, they’ve helped me kind of get through the jail,” Buchanan said. “You can’t go into the jail with a cocky attitude…but the seasoned officers have given me confidence and given me skills.”
Buchanan’s journey to LCSD wasn’t by chance. His involvement with the Explorers program, a youth initiative that exposes young people to careers in law enforcement, played a pivotal role in his decision to apply. He also participated in the Underage Compliance Initiative, a program that enforces alcohol and tobacco laws.
“I think when I started getting more integrated into the Explorer post… I just found a passion for it,” Buchanan said. “I don’t want to sound corny, but it sort of feels like a calling.”
His early start in law enforcement was made possible by recent legislative changes. In 2022, the minimum age to join a detention center was lowered from 21 to 18, opening doors for committed and ambitious young adults like Buchanan who are ready to serve their communities without having to wait three extra years.
For Buchanan, the job is both rewarding and surprising. Working in the detention center has challenged some of his preconceived assumptions about the environment.
“Most people don’t exactly know what happens behind the jail doors,” he said. “The first thing I noticed was that it’s a lot nicer than I thought.”
A typical day for Buchanan involves performing security checks, overseeing inmate activity and working alongside seasoned officers. His responsibilities require focus and discipline, but he enjoys the challenge.
“The most common thing that would probably be the most surprising to me was probably when you go to the mental health floor for the first time, experience those guys,” Buchanan said. “How intense it is.”
Despite the demanding nature of his job, Buchanan appreciates the financial stability it provides. At just 18 years old, he has already secured his own apartment, car and even a pet cat, all thanks to the opportunities available at LCSD.
“You make $20 an hour straight out of high school,” Buchanan said. “I mean, I don’t know where else that’s gonna pay you that much for being 18.”
Looking ahead, Buchanan encourages other young people to consider a career in law enforcement. For those nearing high school graduation and unsure about their next steps, he offers this advice:
“I would definitely tell them to check it out,” Buchanan said. “You can come here, talk to somebody about applying… get a tour, because I feel like that’s a big thing.”
Buchanan is proof that a career with LCSD isn’t just a job, it’s a meaningful opportunity to serve the community, build lifelong connections and lay the foundation for a stable future.
“Like I said earlier, the people. You make friends that you never thought you’d make.”
Interested in starting your career with LCSD? Visit our website to learn more about open positions and how you can make a difference.