Every year, the Lexington County Sheriff’s Foundation recognizes Lexington County Sheriff’s Department employees who go above and beyond in their roles.These awards highlight the people whose dedication, leadership and professionalism make a real difference across the agency.

The 2025 recipients represent different parts of the department, but they share a common purpose: serving the people of Lexington County with integrity and commitment.

Outstanding civilian – Amber Alley

Administrative Assistant Amber Alley joined the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department in July 2025 and quickly became an important part of the South Region team.

After completing her training, Amber began improving how the office organizes and tracks key information. She created new digital calendars to help deputies keep track of schedules and important dates. She also developed systems to track case assignments and closures, giving supervisors a clearer view of investigative progress.  

Amber helped digitize older case files, freeing up valuable storage space and created a process to collect case files from deputies and upload them into the records management system.

Her attention to detail and willingness to improve systems have made daily operations smoother for deputies and staff.

Detention deputy of the year – Twannia Price

Detention Deputy Twannia Price has earned a reputation for strong leadership and dependability inside the detention center.

She manages her unit with confidence and maintains order while clearly communicating expectations to the inmates under her supervision. 

Supervisors say she consistently supports other deputies and often steps in to help without being asked.

Her professionalism and teamwork have made her a role model for newer deputies entering the detention center.

For her commitment to maintaining a safe and professional environment, Twannia Price has been named the 2025 Detention Deputy of the Year.

Brian S. Mills Rookie of the Year – Ian Cox

Detention Deputy Ian Cox joined the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department in February 2025 and quickly stood out. He completed field training with an exceptional evaluation and a perfect test score.  

During his first year, Cox responded to a critical incident inside the detention center and received a Special Achievement Award for his actions.

Later, he graduated from the South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy’s Basic Detention Course with the highest GPA in his class, earning the Bert Friday Award.

Supervisors frequently assign him to housing areas normally handled by more experienced deputies due to his calm demeanor and attention to detail.

For his outstanding first year of service, Ian Cox has been named the Brian S. Mills Rookie of the Year.

Patrol deputy of the year – Reggie Ward

Reggie Ward has served the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department since 1982.

Today he works as the Telephone Reporting Unit (TRU) Deputy, often becoming the first deputy citizens interact with when they come to the department for help. 

In 2025 alone, Ward handled an impressive workload:

• 1,407 calls for service
• 715 reports completed
• 46 arrests
• 55 arrest warrants served
• 756 lobby calls for assistance 

His experience allows him to resolve many situations independently, helping reduce the workload on patrol deputies.

His dedication and professionalism have made him a trusted and respected member of the department.

Recognizing service

These award recipients, along with the other honorees recognized at this year’s banquet, represent the commitment and professionalism found throughout the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department.

From patrol deputies to detention staff to civilian support roles, each person plays an important part in keeping the community safe. Their work reflects the values of the department and the mission of serving Lexington County with integrity and dedication.

If you are passionate about making a positive impact, you can find out more and apply today to join LCSD. We would love to hear from you.

When many people think of law enforcement, they picture patrol cars and flashing lights. What they might not see is the leadership inside the walls of the detention center. The steady voice during conflict. The mentor guiding a new detention deputy. The administrator ensuring fairness behind the scenes.

This International Women’s Day, we are proud to spotlight three leaders whose work inside the Lexington County Detention Center reflects professionalism, compassion and resilience in action.

Together, they represent a powerful truth: corrections is not defined by physical strength. It is defined by character, communication and commitment.

Leadership rooted in growth and communication

Lt. Monserat Lawal-Agoro’s journey into corrections began with practicality. As a young mother seeking job security, benefits and stability, she entered the field with responsibility in mind. What she discovered was purpose.

Now a lieutenant with eight years at the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department, and 17 years in detention overall, she oversees the safety, custody and care of inmates while developing and training the deputies under her command.

“It’s not about physical strength,” she explains. “It’s about communication. Be professional. Be consistent. Be fair.”

Her leadership philosophy centers on growth. She emphasizes training, mentorship and remaining open to learning, regardless of rank.

“I might be a lieutenant, but I still learn from the newer ones,” she says. “Never stop learning. Be open to criticism.”

Through her years of service, she has seen the realities many individuals face, from mental health challenges to economic hardship. Rather than harden her perspective, the experience deepened her empathy.

“Corrections shaped me as a mother, a wife and a person,” she says. “You see what society is going through every day.”

Her advice to women considering law enforcement is simple: leadership already lives within you. The ability to guide, communicate and develop others is an advantage in this profession.

Professionalism inspired by legacy

For Sgt. Ormica Thomas, corrections is both professional and personal.

Inspired by her mother’s 12 years as a jailer, Thomas grew up seeing the meaningful impact detention deputies can have. That example shaped her decision to pursue a career in law enforcement.

She began as a front-line detention deputy and quickly developed a reputation for steady leadership and professionalism. Her dedication led her to become a field training officer, mentoring new detention deputies as they entered the profession. In 2018, she earned the distinction of master detention deputy. Three years later, she was promoted to sergeant.

Thomas says the most rewarding part of her job is the opportunity to connect with people during some of the most difficult moments of their lives. Whether supervising staff or interacting with inmates, she approaches each day with accountability, respect and service at the forefront.

She credits the department’s supportive, family-oriented culture for helping her grow as a leader and professional, fostering resilience and teamwork along the way.

Ensuring fairness and clarity behind the scenes

Lt. Paula Hare has served with the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department since 2004, building a career defined by dedication and precision.

As the department’s inmate records manager, she ensures critical information remains accurate and up to date, from classification details to court documentation. In her role as inmate grievance coordinator, she helps individuals who feel overwhelmed by the legal process navigate it with clarity and understanding.

“I’m not here to judge them, nor am I here to be their jury,” Hare explains. “I’m here to assist them with getting to court and understanding their charges.”

Her career began as a detention deputy before advancing to administrative sergeant and eventually administrative lieutenant. As a certified corrections supervisor, she blends operational experience with strong administrative leadership that benefits the entire team.

Her commitment to service extends beyond formal responsibilities. Whether helping a colleague through a personal challenge or encouraging collaboration across the department, Hare believes in leading by example. She describes the department’s culture as family-like, a place where support and professionalism go hand in hand.

A celebration of leadership

Inside the detention center, leadership takes many forms. It is mentorship. It is accountability. It is compassion balanced with structure.

These three women demonstrate the detention profession is not about labels. It is about service.

This International Women’s Day, we celebrate Lt. Lawal-Agoro, Sgt. Thomas and Lt. Hare for the impact they make each day. Their leadership strengthens the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department and the community it serves.To women considering a career that allows you to make a difference as you serve your community, your leadership has a place here. Explore our current opportunities and discover how you can make a meaningful difference.

Staying safe online: How LCSD supports cybersecurity in Lexington County

In recognition of Safer Internet Day, the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department is helping raise awareness about what it means to stay safe in today’s digital world.

As technology becomes more embedded in everyday life, online safety is no longer optional—it’s essential. From online banking and social media to remote work and digital classrooms, cyber threats affect individuals, families and businesses alike. That’s why the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department plays a critical role in protecting the community not just on the streets, but online as well.

LCSD’s role in cybersecurity

Cybercrime continues to evolve, ranging from identity theft and financial fraud to cyberstalking and online exploitation. LCSD actively works to prevent, investigate and respond to these threats to keep Lexington County residents safe.

LCSD’s cybersecurity efforts focus on three key areas to help keep our community safe:

Investigating cybercrime:

LCSD investigates a wide range of online offenses that impact local residents. Because cybercrime often crosses city, state and even national boundaries, these investigations frequently involve coordination with state and federal partners to identify and hold offenders accountable.

Training for emerging threats:

As criminals adopt more advanced digital tools, law enforcement must stay ahead of the curve. LCSD officers receive ongoing training in cybersecurity and digital investigations, ensuring they have the skills needed to track cybercriminals and protect the community.  

Prosecuting offenders:

Successful prosecution is essential to reducing cybercrime. LCSD works closely with the judicial system to ensure individuals responsible for cyber offenses are held accountable, helping deter future crimes and protect victims.

How the community can help stay cyber safe

While LCSD is on the front lines of fighting cybercrime, community involvement is just as important. Education and awareness are powerful tools in preventing online victimization.

LCSD encourages residents to take simple but effective steps to protect themselves:

• Use strong, unique passwords that combine letters, numbers and symbols
• Enable multifactor authentication to add an extra layer of security
• Be cautious of phishing attempts, especially unsolicited messages requesting personal information
• Keep software and devices updated to protect against known vulnerabilities  

Partnering with national safety efforts

In addition to local initiatives, LCSD supports national efforts that promote online safety and digital responsibility. Organizations such as ConnectSafely provide trusted resources for parents, educators and young people to learn how to navigate the internet safely, responsibly and confidently.

Through programs that focus on digital citizenship, privacy and online behavior, ConnectSafely empowers communities to be proactive—not reactive—when it comes to online safety. Residents can get involved by exploring educational materials, participating in safety campaigns, and sharing resources within their schools, homes and workplaces.

Learn more or get involved at https://safer.connectsafely.org/get-involved/

A shared responsibility

Cybersecurity is a shared responsibility. While LCSD remains committed to investigating cybercrime and protecting Lexington County residents, prevention starts with awareness and education at home.

By working together—law enforcement, families, schools and community partners—we can reduce cyber risks and create a safer digital environment for everyone. For more information about LCSD’s cybersecurity efforts and resources available to the community, visit the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department website.

Every February, while much of the country is watching a groundhog, the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department is focused on something far more impactful—investing in the future workforce.

Held Feb. 2, 2026, Shadow Day takes place at the LCSD Training Center on Gibson Road and welcomes 8th through 12th grade students from schools across Lexington County. The goal is simple but powerful: provide early exposure, real experiences and clear pathways for students who might be considering careers in public safety.

A day built on experience, not observation

Shadow Day is designed to meet students where they are—curious, hands-on and eager to understand what life beyond the classroom might look like. Instead of sitting through presentations, students rotate through multiple divisions within the Sheriff’s Department, gaining insight into how each unit plays a role in protecting the community.

Participants explore crime scene investigation, where they learn how evidence such as latent fingerprints is collected and how specialized lighting helps reveal details invisible to the naked eye. The K-9 unit gives students an up-close look at working dogs and reinforces important safety lessons, including when and how to interact with the furry members of the unit.

Students also spend time with the department’s public information office, learning how law enforcement agencies communicate with the public in today’s fast-moving digital world—and how social media has changed the way agencies share information and build trust.

Later in the day, students are introduced to detention center operations, including classroom instruction and a guided tour of the facility. For many students, this is their first time seeing what detention work looks like day to day, offering clarity on a career path that often goes unseen.

Clear paths for the future

One of the most important takeaways from Shadow Day is law enforcement careers are not one-size-fits-all. In South Carolina, students can begin working in correctional facilities and detention centers as early as 18 years old, allowing them to start building a career shortly after high school. Those interested in becoming sworn deputies are encouraged to pursue college and return at 21, the minimum age required to law enforcement certification in the state.

Shadow Day also introduces students to internships, work-study opportunities and the Explorer program, which supports young people interested in law enforcement through mentorship and continued hands-on exposure. Many former Shadow Day participants have gone on to complete internships, attend college or serve in the military, and later return to LCSD as full-time employees—bringing valuable experience and maturity back to their home community  .

Why Shadow Day matters

Shadow Day isn’t about convincing every student to pursue law enforcement—it’s about transparency and informed choice. By offering a realistic look at the job, LCSD allows students to decide for themselves whether this career aligns with their interests, values and goals.

As the department looks ahead and prepares for future staffing needs, Shadow Day plays a key role in sustaining LCSD’s legacy of service. It helps ensure the next generation understands not only what the job requires, but why it matters. With some students nearing 18, Shadow Day becomes a pivotal experience. The need for detention deputies at LCSD creates a tangible opportunity for students to join the force immediately after high school, potentially earning up to $50,000 a year and retiring after 28 years of service to the county. 

By investing time, resources and mentorship into today’s students, the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department is building a stronger, safer future—one Shadow Day at a time.

Shadow Day 2026 continues a long-standing tradition of opening LCSD’s doors to students and giving them an honest, hands-on look at what a career in law enforcement really involves. The event in 2026 was LCSDs biggest attendance with nearly 60 students representing a dozen schools.

For many students, their first interaction with law enforcement happens at school. At the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department, school resource officers work every day to make sure those interactions are built on trust, compassion and connection.

Two of those school resource officers, Shanice Coates and Destiny Gordon, represent a new generation of policing in Lexington County schools. Though both are in their first year as SROs, their impact is already being felt far beyond the hallways they patrol.

Building trust from day one

Coates began her career with LCSD in February 2025 and started in her middle school assignment when the school year began in August. From the start, she knew she had found the right fit.

“They say if you find a job or career that you love, it doesn’t feel like a job, and I can 100% agree,” Coates said. “I enjoy going every day.”

Her approach is simple but powerful. Show up, be human and build real relationships.

“I just let them know that as police officers, we are humans as well. We just wear a badge. We’re here to protect y’all and make y’all feel comfortable.”

One of her favorite parts of the day happens before classes even begin, greeting students in the bus and car lines every morning.

“I make everyone say good morning,” she said. “Now when they see me, they automatically start saying good morning. That lets me know the small things that I do are working.”

For Coates, being an SRO is not about standing on the sidelines. She makes it a point to be fully involved in the school community and works closely with administrators to find the best path forward for students.

“All kids don’t need to be thrown in the system,” she said. “We may find other routes to handle the situation for kids.”

From the classroom to the hallways

At Piney Woods Elementary, Gordon brings a unique perspective to her role because before becoming a deputy, she was a teacher.

“I absolutely adore my job,” Gordon said. “I get to focus on relationships ten times more than curriculum and lesson plans.”

Known affectionately by students as “G-Force,” Gordon has a gift for connecting with kids, often trading nicknames with them as a way to build trust. For her, the goal is simple. Make sure students do not see law enforcement as something to fear.

She recalls one young student who was terrified of police officers due to a previous bad experience.

“He used to hide underneath a table every time I came in the room,” she said. “Now he runs and jumps in my arms when he sees me.”

Moments like that define the heart of her work.

“I want him to know that we are not somebody there to cause stress or harm, but we are there to help.”

Wearing many hats

Both officers describe the SRO role as far more than just security. Gordon regularly spends time helping in special needs and behavioral classrooms, offering what she calls “brain breaks” for students who need time to reset.

“Sometimes kids just need a break,” she said. “Eight hours is a long day, especially for a child who is on the spectrum or dealing with behavioral issues.”

She will take students for walks, spend time in sensory rooms or give them space to calm down before returning to class, supporting both the students and the teachers.

Coates shares that same mindset of involvement and support, making herself part of the daily rhythm of the school rather than an outsider looking in.

“I’m not that SRO that stays out of the loop. I’m in it,” she said.

Proving themselves

Both officers admit being new faces in their schools came with challenges.

Gordon, who had previously been known at the school as a parent, faced early doubts. Those quickly disappeared during a real emergency when a bus driver collapsed. She stepped in, began CPR and managed the situation until EMS arrived.

“I think that is when they really saw me in that mode,” she said. “After that, everything changed.”

Today, she says the staff and administration fully embrace her as part of the team. They even awarded her a purple cape and dubbed her the school’s “superhero.”

A message to future deputies

When asked what they would say to someone considering a career with LCSD or becoming an SRO, both officers are quick to encourage them.

“Do it,” Coates said. “Everybody has to find their niche. Somewhere along the way, you will find exactly what you are meant to do.”

Gordon agrees.

“You do not just wear one hat. You wear multiple. If you enjoy that kind of role and responsibility, absolutely go for it.”

Why Lexington County

Both officers also spoke passionately about what makes LCSD different.

“Lexington County is an amazing place to work,” Gordon said. “They offer training constantly. They want you to better yourself.”

Coates echoed that sentiment.

“When I came to Lexington County, I was like, I have literally found my family,” she said. “They do not look over us. We are offered the same training as any other road deputy.”

More than law enforcement

At the end of the day, both officers see their work as something bigger than enforcement.

It’s about relationships.
It’s about showing up.
It’s about changing how the next generation sees the badge.

And in Lexington County schools, that impact is already being felt, one “good morning,” one brain break and one hug at a time. If you are looking for more than just a job and want a career built on purpose, teamwork and service, we invite you to explore current opportunities with LCSD.

January 9 was National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day, a time to recognize not only the service deputies provide in moments of crisis, but also the quieter, everyday ways they invest in the future of our community.

For one Lexington County Sheriff’s Department deputy, Major Hampton Taylor, that investment happens not behind a badge or a patrol car, but in a school hallway, once a week, with a book in hand.

How It All Started

The journey began when a local school principal reached out to public safety officers looking for mentors. The school had identified a group of students who could benefit from positive role models, and Taylor was asked to participate.

The school paired him with one student, and what started as a simple weekly reading session has now grown into a five-year mentoring relationship.

Today, they still meet once a week for about an hour throughout the school year, reading together, talking and catching up on life.

More Than Just Reading

While reading is the foundation of their time together, the conversations go far beyond books.

They talk about:

• How school is going
• What’s happening at home
• Goals for the future
• Sports, competitions and upcoming events
• Making good decisions and staying focused

Many of the books they read together carry life lessons about perseverance, teamwork, not giving up and making smart choices. After each session, they talk about what they learned and how it applies to real life.

“He reads to me, then I read to him,” Taylor explained. “And then we talk about what the book means, and what we can learn from it.”

A Long-Term Commitment

There’s no official cutoff for the mentoring relationship.

“When you start mentoring a kid, there isn’t a timeline,” Taylor said. “Once he leaves elementary school, I’ll still follow him and stay in touch. The toughest school years are still ahead, middle school and high school. That’s when it’s even more important to keep being that positive influence.”

The Impact Goes Beyond One Student

At first, the student was shy. Now, every week when Taylor walks into the lunchroom, he runs up to greet him with a hug, one when he arrives and one before he leaves.

And it’s not just him anymore.

What started as one-on-one mentoring has turned into something bigger. Other students line up to say hello. They want hugs. They want to read. They want to talk.

“It started with one kid,” Taylor said, “but now I’ve kind of gained a whole classroom.”

Why This Matters

For Taylor, this is at the core of why law enforcement exists.

“These kids are the future of our community and our country,” he said. “Not everybody comes from the same background. This helps me understand where people come from and what they’re going through.”

He also shared that mentoring provides a powerful balance to the realities of law enforcement.

“So often, we see people on their worst days. But when you walk into a school and kids are excited to see you, it reminds them that we’re not just there for the worst moments. We truly want the best for them.”

A Positive Influence in the Classroom

Teachers have seen the impact too. Many of the students selected for mentoring were identified because of challenges, such as focus, attention or other obstacles in the classroom.

Having something positive to look forward to each week makes a difference.

“It helps keep him focused and motivated,” Taylor said. “He’s been doing excellent in school.”

A Department-Wide Effort

This mentoring program isn’t just one deputy. Other members of the Sheriff’s Department have also participated when schedules allow, especially in areas where the program first began.

It’s a reminder that community policing doesn’t always happen in emergencies. Sometimes, it happens one conversation, one book and one relationship at a time.

Honoring Service on National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day

On January 9, as we recognized National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day, stories like this highlight what service truly looks like. Not just enforcing the law, but building trust, shaping futures and showing the next generation that someone believes in them.

Because sometimes, the most meaningful impact doesn’t come from a call for service, but from showing up, week after week, and simply being there.

The holidays are a special time in Lexington County and the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department is proud to celebrate the season by giving back, connecting with families and supporting local businesses. This year, we’re focusing on three signature events that bring joy to the community, strengthen relationships and remind us what it means to serve with heart.

Deputy Claus: Bringing holiday magic to every neighborhood

Nothing says Christmas like the sight (and sound) of the Deputy Claus making his way through Lexington County. This beloved LCSD tradition lights up neighborhoods across the region, with Santa himself waving from the sleigh alongside our deputies.

Families gather on porches and sidewalks, kids cheer and wave, and the night fills with laughter, flashing lights and a sense of unity that defines our community. Deputy Claus is more than just a parade, it’s a symbol of togetherness and joy that touches every corner of Lexington County.

When:  Dec. 15-22. Stay tuned for the official list of neighborhoods.

Follow LCSD on social media for live updates and a link posted every night where our community can track Deputy Claus in real time.

Meet ‘Santa Claude’ and Mrs. Claus: A real-life holiday dream come true

Some Santas play the part but ours was born for it. Meet Santa Claude, the real-life Santa whose name really is Claude. Joined by Mrs. Claus, this duo brings pure Christmas magic to life for families across Lexington County.

LCSD’s Media and Public Information team will be on site capturing free family photos, and thanks to our incredible partners at Lowes Foods, the entire event is completely free to the public. No fees, just smiles and holiday spirit.

When: Dec. 18 from 1 p.m.–4 p.m.
Where: Lowes Foods, 2440 Augusta Hwy., Lexington SC 29072

Bring the kids, make some memories and take home a keepsake photo that captures the magic of the season.

Shop with a Cop: Making spirits bright for local families

Each December, one of the most meaningful traditions for the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department is Shop with a Cop, a day that brings smiles, laughter and connection between local children and deputies. Held in partnership with the Wal-Mart in Red Bank, the event is about more than holiday shopping; it’s about building trust and showing children law enforcement is here to serve with care and compassion.

The morning begins with breakfast, where deputies and children share a meal, meet Santa Claus and get to know one another before heading into the aisles. Then, paired with their chosen deputy, each child gets to pick out gifts, from favorite toys to clothing and essentials, all while experiencing the joy of being seen and supported.

“It gives us an opportunity to interact with these children on a personal level and help them understand that we are human just like they are,” Deputy Joel Cooper said.

Though the event lasts only one day, the relationships often continue long after. Many deputies follow up with the children they meet, visiting schools or stopping by to say hello throughout the year.

“I want the kids to know that they made my day as much as we may have made theirs,” Capt. Jenn Burns said.

Shop with a Cop is a reminder that small moments of kindness can have a lasting impact, strengthening the bond between deputies and the community they proudly serve.

When: Dec. 20
Follow along as we share stories and photos from this heartwarming tradition.

Serving the Community, One smile at a time

At LCSD, we believe our role extends far beyond public safety: it’s about connection, compassion and community. These three holiday initiatives bring that mission to life, reminding us that service takes many forms: a smile, a sleigh ride or a simple act of kindness.

This December, we invite you to join us in celebrating the season and helping make Lexington County shine a little brighter.

From our LCSD family to yours, happy holidays, and thank you for making our community a place we’re proud to call home.

joinlcsd.org

As the holiday season approaches, the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department is again joining forces with Mission Lexington to ensure families across our community have a warm, full meal to share together.

Through the Friends Feeding Friends initiative, Mission Lexington provides holiday meals to families in need in addition to its regular monthly food pantry program, which already serves around 2,000 people each month. The program brings together local partners, volunteers and law enforcement to put traditional holiday staples on the table for neighbors facing tough times.

“We want to make sure that families are getting their normal food every month through the pantry,” said Amy Reeves, chief executive officer of Mission Lexington. “We’re also providing them with a holiday meal they can put on their table.”

To make that possible, LCSD deputies will be out in the community helping to collect donations during several upcoming Friends Feeding Friends food drives. This year’s events will take place at local grocery stores across Lexington County:

Holiday food drive dates

• Nov. 24–26: Lowes Foods (2440 Augusta Hwy)
• Nov. 28: Lowes Foods (2440 Augusta Hwy)
• Dec. 3–5: Lowes Foods (2440 Augusta Hwy)
• Dec. 10–12: Sam’s Club (350 Harbison Blvd)
• Dec. 17–19: Wal-Mart (1780 S Lake Dr.)

Community members are invited to visit any of these locations to donate nonperishable food items that help make up a complete holiday meal.

A partnership built on care

Mission Lexington’s partnership with the Sheriff’s Department goes far beyond the holidays. Deputies regularly connect residents in need with Mission Lexington’s resources throughout the year, whether it’s after a house fire, a domestic violence situation or another crisis.

“Deputies carry cards with Mission Lexington’s contact information in their patrol cars,” Reeves said. “When they meet someone who needs help, they can hand them a card and say, ‘Go there this afternoon, they can help you right away.’ That connection makes an immediate difference.”

Mission Lexington offers wraparound support including food, clothing, household essentials, rent and mortgage assistance, and more. LCSD’s close relationship with the organization helps ensure people in crisis get connected to those resources quickly.

Reeves added deputies also make a point to stop by the mission, check in and make sure staff feel safe and supported.

“They go above and beyond to make sure we’re doing OK,” she said. “It means so much to see familiar faces who care about us while we’re taking care of others.”

Making an impact together

As the need for assistance continues to grow, the partnership between LCSD and Mission Lexington remains a vital link for neighbors who need a helping hand. Every can, every donation and every shared hour of service adds up to something bigger: hope.

“We’re grateful to stand beside Mission Lexington again this season,” Sheriff Jay Koon said. “Together, we’re helping ensure no family in our community has to go without a holiday meal.”

To learn more about Mission Lexington and ways to give, visit missionlexingtonsc.org.

 

When students from the University of South Carolina stepped inside the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department this fall, they got more than a glimpse of daily operations. They experienced the many paths a law enforcement career can take.

The event, part of USC’s Spurs Up job-shadowing program, connected more than 20 students with deputies, investigators and leadership across multiple LCSD divisions and units. From patrol and forensics, to drones and canine operations, the hands-on experience gave students a real-world look at the skills, teamwork, and purpose behind the badge.

A partnership built on opportunity

The collaboration began when USC reached out to LCSD about its new experiential learning program. For Sgt. Dan Rusinyak, who leads recruitment and internship coordination for the department, saying yes was an easy decision.

“USC asked if we’d be interested in hosting students, and it was a no-brainer,” Rusinyak said. “We’re always looking for ways to connect with people who are curious about law enforcement and want to see what we’re all about.”

Since launching last year, the partnership has continued to grow. The program welcomes students from diverse academic backgrounds including criminal justice, business, psychology, sociology, music, and religion. This reflects the wide range of skills represented across the department.

“It’s not just for criminal justice majors,” Rusinyak added. “We have deputies with all kinds of degrees, and this program gives students that same insight. It shows them there’s a place for many different strengths in law enforcement.”

Inside the day: From CSI to drones

Students rotated through presentations from specialized teams, including crime scene investigators, domestic violence and major crimes units, and the K-9 and drone teams. One highlight, according to Rusinyak, was a live drone demonstration from Investigator Senn, which captivated everyone in the room.

“They’d seen drones on the news, but watching one operate just a few feet away made a huge impact,” Rusinyak said. “Moments like that make it real.”

For deputy Jeramie Mackinson, a member of the Explosive Ordnance Disposal team, the event was a chance to give students a realistic look at one of the department’s most complex units.

“A lot of people think of the bomb squad and imagine the movies, but it’s a very technical field,” Mackinson said. “We handle everything from chemical threats and fireworks to suspicious packages, and it takes constant training and teamwork.”

Mackinson said he hopes the visit helped students see how much problem-solving and precision go into every aspect of public safety. “What we do requires patience, communication, and trust,” he said. “If even one student walked away understanding that, it’s worth it.”

Hands-on learning also helped clear up common misconceptions. Many students arrived with expectations shaped by TV shows and movies, only to discover how much precision and coordination real investigations require.

“They realize how detailed and involved the work is,” Rusinyak said. “It’s an eye-opener, and that’s exactly the goal.”

Building future connections

For LCSD, the program is not just about showcasing what the department does. It is about creating a pathway for future careers. The agency offers spring, summer and fall internships that immerse students in every part of a full-service department, from patrol and investigations to court services and detention.

“The internship program gives students a front-row seat to all three pillars of the criminal justice system,” Rusinyak said. “It’s the best way to find out if this career is right for you.”

Many LCSD deputies, including members of command staff, are USC alumni. That connection between the university and the department continues to grow stronger every year.

“This is our home,” Rusinyak said. “We’re both part of the Midlands community, and we’re proud to invest in each other. It’s a model for how agencies and universities should work together.”

Continuing the partnership

As the Spurs Up partnership continues to grow, LCSD remains committed to offering students meaningful, behind-the-scenes experiences and inspiring the next generation of public safety professionals.

For students or schools interested in learning more about internship opportunities or similar partnerships, Sgt. Rusinyak encourages reaching out directly.

“Whether you’re from USC or another college in South Carolina, we welcome you to come see what we do,” he said. “If you’re curious, this is the perfect place to find your fit.”

For more information about LCSD internship opportunities, contact Sgt. Rusinyak at drusinyak@lcsd.sc.gov or call 803-904-2124.