RESPECT. HONOR. REMEMBER. CELEBRATING NATIONAL CORRECTIONS AND NATIONAL POLICE WEEK

Each year in May, the nation observes National Correctional Officer’s Week and National Police Week. While the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department enjoys celebrating with special lunches and events, it is also important to recognize and appreciate the invaluable contributions both correctional officers and police officers have made for Lexington County.

The vital role of correctional officers

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, approximately 363,000 correctional officers held employment nationwide in 2022. These dedicated professionals work in various settings, such as federal, state and local prisons, as well as county jails and detention centers.

Correctional officers play a key role in maintaining the safety and security of the community they serve. Within correctional facilities, they work diligently and to maintain order, manage inmate populations, and ensure the well-being of both staff and incarcerated individuals. Often the unsung heroes, the correctional officers who serve in Lexington County are owed a tremendous debt of gratitude as they put their health, safety and lives on the line, each and every day.

The essential duties of law enforcement officers

Astoundingly, there are more than 800,000 sworn law enforcement officers now serving in the United States, about 12 percent of whom are women.

Law enforcement officers serve as the guardians of their community, tirelessly working to protect and serve. They respond to emergencies, enforce laws, and maintain order. The presence of police officers fosters a sense of security and trust, allowing a peace of mind for the citizens of Lexington County, making them an essential part of the community.

Two important days

National Correctional Officer’s Week and National Police Week provide an opportunity to shine a spotlight on the contributions of both our detention deputies and patrol deputies. By collectively recognizing their dedication, sacrifice, and professionalism, Lexington County can raise awareness about the challenges they face and the impact they make in protecting the community.

Building a culture of appreciation

While National Correctional Officer’s Week and National Police Week provide a dedicated time to honor correctional officers and police officers, it is essential to extend that appreciation throughout the year. By recognizing their importance, fostering positive relationships, and supporting their efforts, Lexington County Sheriff’s Department believes this can create a community that truly values and appreciates the roles that are played to keep Lexington County safe.

Interested in working in an environment that feels like a family dedicated to making a difference? Check out our current job opportunities. Any questions about qualifications or our application process please contact us.

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TAKE A KID FISHING DAY: HONORING LAW ENFORCEMENT WITH A DAY OF FUN

Community is a special part of the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department’s mission to serve. Law enforcement officers and their families work tirelessly to keep the community safe. In recognition of their hard work and dedication, a number of local churches and businesses have teamed up to host an annual event called Take a Kid Fishing Day.

A day of fun for law enforcement and families

Take a Kid Fishing Day serves as a heartfelt “thank you” to law enforcement officers for their commitment and support to the community. This event is designed for officers and employees, along with their families and friends. It offers a much-needed break from the daily stresses of their demanding profession, providing a chance to enjoy the great outdoors while learning about fishing. All while enjoying some delicious food. Organized by the compassionate individuals within the Lexington County community, this event serves as a gesture of gratitude and support for their law enforcement heroes.

Hook, line and conservation: embracing catch and release for a thriving environment

While fishing is the central activity of the day, this event also promotes environmental awareness and enjoying the great outdoors. Most of the fish caught during the event are released back into the pond, emphasizing the importance of protecting and taking care of natural resources. It’s also an opportunity for law enforcement family members to enjoy the abundant natural resources across Lexington County.

Reeling in traditions: celebrating the second anniversary of Take a Kid Fishing Day

There is nothing more inspiring than community members coming together in support of one another. This year marks the second anniversary of Take a Kid Fishing day. A day to honor and celebrate the law enforcement officers of Lexington County. Providing an opportunity for officers and their families to enjoy a peaceful day of fun while giving back to those who protect and serve.

Fostering collaboration and safety: uniting law enforcement agencies in Lexington County

One notable aspect of Take a Kid Fishing Day is that it extends its invitation to all law enforcement agencies within Lexington County. This fosters a sense of unity among different agencies and highlights the importance of collaboration in maintaining community safety. It serves as a platform for officers from various departments to come together, share experiences and strengthen their bonds.

Events such as Take a Kid Fishing Day are essential reminders of the impact law enforcement officers have on our communities. If you would like to be a part of a community that cares, check out our current job opportunities. The Lexington County Sheriff’s Department is here for you.

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BEHIND THE SCENES – HOW SROS AND MAJOR CRIMES WORK TOGETHER TO KEEP OUR SCHOOLS SAFE

School is a place for learning, growing and building relationships for future generations. That’s why it’s one of the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department top priorities to ensure the safety of the students, teachers and staff members in each and every school.

Incidents require effective response plans, training and the ability to quickly communicate during a crisis. School Resource Officer Reggie Lighty and Senior Investigator Cameron Sherban have worked hand in hand to help keep the schools of Lexington County safe.

What’s the process when a school threat is made?

Communication and active response plans play an important role when a potential violent act is at play. Threats can come through in many different forms: via social media, directly to the school or a person at the school.

The first step in taking action is for the SRO to determine the nature of the threat. Then, the command staff is brought in to help assist, along with the school district security and school administrators. Once the situation is established, Major Crimes is brought in to help identify the suspect while helping to collaborate on a plan to enact the appropriate policy to ensure everyone’s safety.

How does the major crimes unit and SROs work together to investigate the threats?

There are two important roles SROs and Major Crimes play that are crucial to the development of the investigation.

SROs are an important resource to have as they know their students better than most since they are there with them everyday. Their ability to act as a liaison with the students can help determine where the threat originated. Major Crimes then steps in to help generate intel on potential leads that help identify the suspect.

If there is one thing you want the community to know about school threats, what would it be?

The most important thing for the community to know is each and every threat made is taken very seriously.

“Some come in a little more vague than others, but we take every single threat seriously and we investigate them all,” Lighty said.

The safety of the students and staff is a top priority.

“We want to make sure our kids can go to school and learn without any threats or fears so that they can grow up to be police officers, firemen, nurses, or doctors. Giving them the opportunity that they need,” Sherban said.

All threats have a different message

Every situation is different. Threats can be directed at a specific person, some are directed at the school. Each of these situations are handled differently as the SRO and school administration are much more involved when a threat is made towards a specific individual. If the school is targeted, SROs and detectives work together to make a plan and take action to investigate the situation.

SROs are placed in Lexington County Schools for a reason, to keep schools safe.

Join to help keep our schools safe

Do you have a passion for promoting a safe learning environment for students, staff and parents? Check out our latest job posting to become an SRO. Contact us today with any questions.