A story of compassion, commitment and community: How one deputy’s call changed a life

This Veterans Day we’re taking a moment to honor the incredible men and women who have served our country. Today, we celebrate a heartfelt story from right here at the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department, highlighting how one deputy’s actions truly changed a life for the better.

In a seemingly ordinary situation, Resident Deputy John Sanders responded to a shoplifting call at a local grocery store. What could have been a routine arrest turned into something far more significant. The young man involved, 18-year-old Brian Gilbert, had stolen out of desperation. Homeless and struggling to find food, he was in a bind that seemed impossible to escape.

“It all started with a call of service at the grocery store,” Sanders said. “Later, when I followed up with him, he explained his situation—he was homeless, living in a tent and didn’t have a job.”

For many, this might have seemed like the end of the story—a criminal charge and a future filled with uncertainty. But Deputy Sanders looked beyond the shoplifting charge. He saw a person in front of him who needed more than just punishment; he needed a lifeline.

As a United States Army Reservist, Sanders knew the structure, discipline and support the military could provide. It was this understanding that led him to suggest an unexpected solution to Gilbert.

“From my experience with the military, you’re fed, you get a place to sleep, and you get paid for it. Knowing the Marines, they have a quick turnaround time from when you sign your contract to when you head off to basic training,” Sanders said.

Gilbert, having hit rock bottom, was ready to turn his life around. With Sanders’ guidance, he met with Marine Corps Recruiter Brent Latham, who immediately saw potential in the young man.

“I wasn’t trying to recruit Private Gilbert. I wanted to give him an opportunity to do something with his life,” Latham said. “It took one phone call from a deputy to a Marine Corps recruiter to take someone from a terrible situation and put him on the road to success.”

That one phone call, sparked by a deputy’s genuine care for his community, transformed Gilbert’s life. He embraced the challenge of the Marines, worked hard, and eventually completed basic training at Parris Island, South Carolina.

The bond between Gilbert, Sanders and Latham didn’t stop there. At Gilbert’s Marine graduation, both Sanders and Latham beamed with pride as they celebrated not just a milestone, but the incredible transformation of a young man who had fought so hard to change his life.

“When I saw [Gilbert] at graduation, it’s just so impactful that you literally took a young man that was struggling and now he’s on a road to success,” Latham said. “I saw Sanders at graduation and shook his hand and told him, ‘This is because of you.’”

Gilbert, now a proud Marine, says Deputy Sanders gave him the chance to completely turn his life around. Thanks to that opportunity, he’s found a career he’s passionate about, and their bond is still going strong. Sanders continues to be a rock for Gilbert, offering support and guidance every step of the way.

“I talk to Sanders all the time. He’s really honest and straightforward with it… and gives me an honest opinion on things,” Gilbert said. “There are resources, you really just have to put your pride aside and ask for help.”

LCSD shares this story as a testament to the commitment and compassion our officers have for the people they serve. It’s about more than enforcing laws—it’s about changing lives. Sanders’ intervention didn’t just help Gilbert avoid further hardship, but it set him on a path toward a meaningful career and a brighter future.

Law enforcement isn’t just about protecting—it’s about serving. The men and women of LCSD care deeply for the community, and they work tirelessly to make a real difference in the lives of those they encounter.

If you’re a veteran or someone who wants to serve your community with the same dedication and compassion, LCSD is always looking for people like you to join our team. Our officers come from all walks of life, bringing diverse experiences and perspectives to their work. Whether you have military experience or not, if you’re committed to protecting, serving and uplifting the Lexington community, there’s a place for you at LCSD.

One phone call changed a life. Imagine what you could do as a part of the LCSD team.

To watch the video version of this story, click here.

Ready to Serve?

Apply now and start your journey in service and commitment to Lexington County.

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Staying safe online: How LCSD supports cybersecurity during cybersecurity awareness month

October marks Cybersecurity Awareness Month, a national initiative since 2004. For more than two decades, this month has served as a reminder of the importance of staying safe online, as our daily lives become more interconnected and reliant on technology. The month of October focuses on equipping individuals, families and businesses with the knowledge and tools to protect themselves from online threats.

The Lexington County Sheriff’s Department plays an important role in the fight against cybercrime, staying active in preventing, investigating and responding to cyber incidents in the Lexington County community. As we mark Cybersecurity Awareness Month, LCSD wants to provide residents with valuable tips on how to protect themselves online, as well as share how local law enforcement is involved in cybersecurity efforts.

LCSD’S ROLE IN CYBERSECURITY

While individuals can take steps to protect themselves, law enforcement agencies such as Lexington County Sheriff’s Department are on the front lines, ensuring cybercriminals are held accountable. In today’s world, cybercrime can range from identity theft and financial fraud to child exploitation, and LCSD is committed to detecting, investigating and prosecuting these digital offenses. In particular, LCSD focuses on:

Investigating cybercrimes: From fraud to cyberstalking, LCSD investigates a range of online offenses that affect our community. Cybercrimes often cross borders, requiring collaboration between local, state and federal agencies to bring offenders to justice.
Training for cyber threats: As criminals use more sophisticated digital tools, law enforcement must stay ahead by adopting new technologies and practices. LCSD officers receive regular cybersecurity training, ensuring they have the skills to track cybercriminals and protect residents.
Prosecuting cyber offenders: Successfully prosecuting cybercriminals is critical in reducing cyber threats. LCSD works with the judicial system to ensure those responsible for cybercrimes are brought to justice.

FOUR WAYS TO STAY SAFE ONLINE

The digital world offers convenience but introduces risks like theft, fraud and online exploitation. Taking proactive steps to protect your online presence is essential.

Use strong passwords: Strong passwords are among the best defenses against hackers. Ensure your passwords are long, unique and random. Including a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers and symbols helps make your password harder to crack. Avoid using the same password across multiple sites to reduce the risk of being compromised.
Enable multifactor authentication: Multifactor authentication adds an extra layer of protection to your accounts by requiring more than just a password. It often involves entering a code sent to your phone or using an authentication app. Enabling this on your accounts significantly reduces the likelihood of being hacked.
Recognize and report phishing: Phishing scams continue to grow more sophisticated. Be cautious of unsolicited messages, especially those asking for personal information or urging you to click suspicious links. If you encounter phishing attempts, report them to the appropriate authority and delete the message.
Update your software: Keeping your software up-to-date ensures you have the latest security patches. Outdated software can have vulnerabilities that hackers exploit. If automatic updates are not available, regularly check for new updates to protect your devices from new threats.

Cybercrime can happen to anyone, but with vigilance, education and law enforcement’s active involvement, we can reduce the risk and keep our digital world safe.

For more information on cybersecurity and how we are growing a team to help protect our community, please visit our website.

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Hurricane Helene Aftermath: Lexington County comes together

In the wake of Hurricane Helene, which brought significant damage across South Carolina, the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department and local community members came together to begin recovery efforts.

Although Helene weakened to a tropical storm as it moved through central Georgia, its path took an unexpected turn. The storm’s center shifted 40 to 70 miles further east than predicted by the National Hurricane Center, bringing the Midlands and Upstate of South Carolina much closer to the strongest wind gusts. Wind speeds of 60 to 70 mph battered the region for hours early Friday morning, leaving behind uprooted trees, damaged structures, and downed power lines.

Lexington County deputies and community volunteers immediately responded to the damage on Friday, focusing on clearing roadways and providing aid to those in need. PIO teams and deputies shared updates as the recovery efforts unfolded, with LCSD and volunteer community members working tirelessly to restore access to blocked roads and ensure public safety. This collaboration between law enforcement and the people of Lexington County exemplifies the resilience and strength of our community in times of crisis.

In addition to the official response efforts, local residents have taken extraordinary steps to help their neighbors. Casper Gerif used his chainsaw and other personal resources to help deputies clear one of hundreds of roads that were impassable across the county.

People have been sharing generators and setting up makeshift charging stations in neighborhoods, ensuring those without power could still charge phones and stay connected with loved ones. Others have come together to share food and provide meals to those who are struggling with the aftermath. Donations have also poured into organizations such as Mission Lexington and Serve & Connect, highlighting the community’s commitment to not only helping locally but reaching out to the entire Southeast.

While the road to recovery continues, the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department will remain on the front lines, clearing debris and helping the county rebuild. We are grateful to everyone who has pitched in to support their neighbors during this challenging time.

If you’ve been affected by Hurricane Helene and need assistance, please find resources available to you at United Way of the Midlands, The Salvation Army of the Midlands or contact us for emergencies.

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From Explorer to K-9 handler: Deputy Torrell Jones’ journey at Lexington County Sheriff’s Department

Few stories capture the essence of dedication and passion like that of Deputy Torrell Jones from Lexington County Sheriff’s Department. From his early childhood fascination with police work to his current role as a K-9 handler, Jones embodies the journey of growth and opportunity at LCSD. His story highlights not only his achievements but also the career opportunities and programs that set Lexington County Sheriff’s Department apart from others.

A childhood dream realized

Deputy Torrell Jones’ aspiration to work in law enforcement was sparked at an early age, influenced by his family’s legacy in the field. His mother, a retired officer, would bring her patrol car home, and young Torrell would eagerly hop in to experience the sights and sounds of police work. This early exposure planted a lifelong commitment to serving the community.

Stepping stones to success

Jones’ career began in 2015 as a patrol deputy. His journey to becoming a K-9 handler in October 2020 was marked by several significant milestones, each highlighting the opportunities for professional growth at LCSD. The agency’s Law Enforcement Explorers program played a crucial role in his development. Participating in this program while pursuing his criminal justice degree at Midlands Technical College provided Jones with hands-on experience and a solid foundation before attending the South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy.

“The Explorers program was instrumental in setting me up for success. It gave me a taste of what being a police officer entails and prepared me for the challenges of the academy,” Jones said.

Career growth and opportunities

Lexington County Sheriff’s Department stands out for its commitment to nurturing and advancing its personnel. Jones’ path from a traffic deputy to a K-9 handler shows the agency’s dedication to career development. After starting as a patrol deputy, Jones served as a field training officer and later moved to the Traffic Division.

The department’s emphasis on internal advancement is a key differentiator. Unlike some agencies where career progression can be stagnant, LCSD provides its deputies with programs and roles that serve as stepping stones to higher positions. The department’s supportive environment fosters growth and encourages deputies to pursue their career goals within the organization.

A culture of support and excellence

“The leadership here is outstanding,” Jones said, when describing the strong camaraderie at LCSD.

This supportive culture not only enhances job satisfaction but also contributes to the high standards of service provided by the department. Deputies benefit from a close-knit team and a leadership team invested in their professional development.

“They’re committed to giving you everything they know to make you a better deputy. The bond you form with your shift is like no other,” Jones said.

Making a difference

In his role as a K-9 handler, Jones finds great fulfillment in his work. From locating missing persons to advancing trust with the community, his duties allow him to make a tangible impact on people’s lives. The joy of reuniting families and building relationships within the community reaffirms his commitment to the role.

“Bringing a missing child or elderly person home and seeing the relief on their family’s faces is a breathtaking experience,” Jones said. “It’s moments like these that make all the hard work worth it.”

Looking ahead

As Jones continues to excel in his role, he envisions a future where he remains a part of the K-9 unit, perhaps even until he retires years down the road. His dedication and passion for the job serve as an inspiration to others within the department and the Lexington County community.

Interested in a rewarding career in law enforcement? Explore opportunities with LCSD and start your journey like Deputy Jones. Visit our website to learn more and apply today.

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From ‘ground zero’ to the classroom: Rob McGrath’s journey of service and dedication

Rob McGrath’s story begins in the small town of Amityville, New York, where he grew up alongside his older brother who joined the New York Police Department in 1998. Inspired by his brother’s path, McGrath found himself following in his footsteps. In July 2001, just a couple of months before one of the most pivotal events in American history, Rob McGrath was sworn in as a police officer with the New York Police Department.

He recalls vividly the moment his career took a life-altering turn on Sept. 11, 2001.

“I was up and saw the first plane hit. Then I saw the second plane hit. And said, OK, something’s going on here,” McGrath said. “Then we all got called in over the TV’s, radios and all different types of communication. And that’s how my career started.”

Like many of his fellow officers, McGrath jumped into action, fully aware of the dangers and uncertainties ahead. In the face of fear and devastation, the officers of NYPD and countless others demonstrated bravery, selflessness and unity. For McGrath, that day, and the days that followed, defined not only his career but also his dedication to public service and his community.

A new chapter: From NYPD to Lexington, South Carolina

After serving in New York for several years, McGrath decided it was time for a change. The fast-paced life of New York had its rewards, but he longed for something different—a slower pace and a warmer climate. In Lexington County, he found a new rhythm of life.

“I asked people where I should move to, and everyone was like, ‘South Carolina! Come to Lexington,’” McGrath said. “We just fell in love with it. New York—everything is ‘hurry up, let’s go.’ Here, I found it’s very reserved, laid back and a lot more spread out. It really is a different pace.”

This change of scenery led to McGrath’s new role as a school resource officer, where he now works to foster positive relationships between law enforcement and the younger generation.

The impact of being a school resource officer

For McGrath, the transition to being an SRO was a natural one.

“I always liked to interact with people, especially younger people. Younger people are trying to make their way in the world,” McGrath said. “So, you’re trying to interact with them, show them that cops are not bad people. We’re here to do a job. We’re here to help as much as we possibly can.”

With his belief that shaping how young people perceive law enforcement can make a profound difference, McGrath continues to see how building relationships with students is long-lasting and meaningful.

“If you can try and make those interactions at an early age, the best you can, and make sure it’s a positive interaction, it will benefit them and the police going forward,” McGrath said. “These kids do not forget you. They will remember you.”

A call to serve

McGrath’s journey, from the harrowing days of 9/11 to his role as an SRO in Lexington County, is a testament to the resilience, dedication and heart that law enforcement officers embody. His story serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by so many on 9/11, and how those sacrifices continue to inspire today.

If you’re looking to begin or continue your career in law enforcement, McGrath’s experience speaks to the value of finding the right balance between work and life. In Lexington County, deputies not only have the chance to serve their communities but also to enjoy a fulfilling lifestyle in a close-knit, supportive environment.

McGrath sums it up best: “You cannot have a better feeling than when you get to help a child or help an adult. You help people. That’s what you’re supposed to do in this line of work.”

For those considering a career in law enforcement, LCSD offers a rewarding path—a place where you can make a difference while enjoying a slower, more relaxed pace of life. Contact us, and be part of a team that values service, balance and the people we protect.

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Charting a Path of Growth: Career progression at the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department

At the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department, there are great opportunities for career progression with numerous paths available for those dedicated to serving their community. From starting in the detention center to moving into patrol and beyond, the journeys of Reinaldo Chacon, Travis Clevenger and Doug Novak highlight the potential for growth and the supportive environment within LCSD.

Reinaldo Chacon – From detention deputy to school resource officer

Reinaldo Chacon, a native of Columbia, South Carolina, always had a passion for helping those who couldn’t help themselves. This drive led him to pursue a career in law enforcement. Inspired by a discussion with his high school resource officer, Chacon set his sights on LCSD and started his career in the detention center in 2017. Despite staff shortages, Chacon’s resilience and the support from his colleagues helped him thrive and persevere.

Chacon transitioned to patrol duty in 2021, a move that brought its own set of challenges. Balancing a demanding job with a newborn at home tested his limits, but the support system at LCSD and his home life kept him going. Encouraged by his friend and mentor, School Resource Officer Reggie Lighty, Chacon continued to strive for excellence. His hard work paid off when he was promoted to school resource officer in June 2022. Looking forward to working with students, Chacon is eager to make a positive impact on the younger generation.

Reflecting on his journey, Chacon appreciates the command staff at LCSD and the support from the community.

“Our higher-ups care about their people,” Chacon said.

The sense of community is strong, with residents often showing appreciation for the deputies’ service.

Travis Clevenger – A dedication to helping others

For Travis Clevenger, law enforcement is more than just a job; it’s a calling to help others on their worst days. With a background in the United States Marine Corps, the South Carolina Department of Corrections and private security, Clevenger brought a wealth of experience to LCSD when he started working at the detention center in 2020.

Balancing his job as a detention deputy with online studies, Clevenger aimed to become a patrol deputy. His dedication paid off in June 2022 when he graduated from the South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy, thanks to an LCSD program that provides a pathway for detention deputies to transition to patrol duties.

Clevenger’s future plans include continuing to help others and making a difference in the community. He values the support he receives at LCSD, describing it as a family where everyone looks out for each other.

“They really want you to succeed here,” Clevenger said, highlighting the department’s commitment to its employees’ growth.

Doug Novak – A career built on support and opportunities

Doug Novak’s interest in law enforcement began at a young age, inspired by his uncle who was a sheriff. Moving to Lexington County in his late 20s, Novak started his career at LCSD in December 1998. Over the years, the support from his co-workers and the community has kept him dedicated to the department.

Novak’s career progression is a testament to the opportunities available at LCSD. Starting as a detention officer, he graduated from the South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy and served in various roles, including school resource officer, property crimes detective and sergeant over evidence. Today, Novak is a lieutenant and the assistant commander of the North Region, where he mentors others and ensures the community’s needs are met.

Reflecting on his journey, Novak credits his former supervisors for his career advancement. Their guidance and accountability were instrumental in his growth. As he continues to learn and strive for another promotion, Novak remains committed to the challenge and the opportunities ahead.

The career paths of Reinaldo Chacon, Travis Clevenger and Doug Novak illustrate the potential for growth and development within LCSD. The supportive environment, opportunities for advancement and a strong sense of community make LCSD a place where dedicated individuals can thrive and make a lasting impact. For those considering a career in law enforcement, LCSD offers a pathway filled with possibilities and the chance to make a difference in the lives of others.

If you have the dedication, experience and heart to serve, we’d love to hear from you. Visit our website for more information about our open positions.

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Safety in Schools: A Top Priority as the New Academic Year Begins – Is a Career as an SRO Right for You?

As we roll into the new school year, Lexington County Sheriff’s Department’s school resource officers, known as SRO’s, go beyond ensuring safety and security on school campuses. The role of an SRO is all about building relationships, mentoring and being a positive influence in the lives of students. Here, we share the stories of two dedicated SROs, Morgan Boozer and Dominique Blasingame, who have embraced this unique role and made a significant difference in their schools.

Morgan Boozer: A fresh perspective at Beechwood Middle School

Morgan Boozer is heading into her second school year as an SRO, this time at Beechwood Middle School. Reflecting on her experience, Boozer shared her excitement about starting and finishing the year at the same school. Last year, she transitioned from Gilbert Elementary to Beechwood right after spring break, allowing her only a brief period to connect with the students. This year, she’s eager to build deeper relationships with them.

Boozer highlighted the differences between working at an elementary school versus a middle school. At Gilbert Elementary, she interacted with students from the rural area of western Lexington County. In contrast, Beechwood Middle School serves a demographic on the western edge of Lexington proper. The Beechwood campus itself is also larger and newer, with a two-story building and various events happening regularly.

When asked what she loves most about her job, Boozer said, “Just being there for the kids.”

As a former preschool teacher, she finds joy in guiding, teaching and befriending students. She shared a touching story about a third grader who initially disliked the police but grew to love and respect her by the end of the school year. Moments like these affirm the impact she makes as an SRO.

For those considering a career as an SRO, Boozer suggests shadowing an officer to get a real sense of the role. The job offers a balance of security duties and the opportunity to form meaningful connections with students.

“It’s more laid back. You don’t have to be running code somewhere… it’s more relaxing, but you always need to be aware of what could happen, Boozer said. “But ultimately, there is no greater feeling than having a kid come up and wanting a hug.”

Dominique Blasingame: A longtime deputy’s wisdom at Swansea High School

Dominique Blasingame has been an SRO for 13 years, with nearly four decades of experience in law enforcement. Stationed at Swansea High School, Blasingame finds joy in presenting himself to new students each year, aiming to improve their lives through daily interactions and building strong relationships.

Blasingame believes the most crucial aspect of being an SRO is being present and available.

“You are more than just the uniform… You need to be able to look a kid in the eye and tell them that you respect them and that you are here for them,” Blasingame said.

His dedication has left a lasting impression on many students, who often approach him in public to reminisce about their time at Swansea High. One story that stands out to Blasingame is of a student who, from her sophomore year, made a point to speak with him every day. Her consistent engagement motivated him and reinforced the importance of his role.

Reflecting on that story, Blasingame said, “If I can have that effect on her, that she respects me enough to relate with me and not worry about the badge I’m wearing, then hopefully that can rub off on someone else.”

Blasingame encourages those interested in becoming SROs to keep an open mind and focus on building relationships with both students and staff.

“The most important quality is being present. Be seen. Be available,” Blasingame said.

If you’re passionate about making a difference in the lives of young people and are interested in a fulfilling career in law enforcement, consider becoming an SRO. The role offers a unique blend of security responsibilities and the chance to be a mentor, guide and friend to students.

Join our team and become a positive force in your community. Shadow an SRO, experience the daily impact firsthand and see if this rewarding career is your next calling. Contact us to learn more.

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Jumpstarting your career at 18: Insights from young professionals at LCSD

Starting a career at 18 years old can seem daunting, especially in a field such as law enforcement. Jacob Roland and Luke Keck, two young detention professionals at the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department, are proof it’s not only possible, but also incredibly rewarding. Their experiences provide valuable insights into how young people can begin and thrive in a law enforcement career without necessarily following the traditional college route.

Meet Luke Keck: Embracing the challenge at a young age

Luke Keck’s interest in law enforcement began early. When the age requirement for detention deputies was lowered, he saw it as a perfect opportunity. The support and comprehensive training at the Lexington County Detention Center have been instrumental in his development.

Initially, Keck faced skepticism due to his age, but he earned the trust of his coworkers through hard work and reliability. He underscores the importance of preparation and reminds others you never know what situation you are going to be in.

“There’s always something new. I never see the same thing,” Keck highlights as he explains the dynamic nature of his job and how variety keeps the job engaging. He also believes in treating inmates with respect, seeing them as human beings who deserve dignity and understanding.

Looking forward, Keck is considering moving to patrol or aiming for a supervisory role in the detention center. His experiences have taught him the job isn’t as intimidating as it might seem, emphasizing teamwork and safety as key aspects of the workplace.

Meet Jacob Roland: From EMS to detention deputy

Jacob Roland, a field training officer in the Lexington County Detention Center, has been a detention deputy for a little over a year and a half. With a background in EMS and a commitment to public safety through his service in the Army National Guard, Roland’s transition to law enforcement was a natural progression. His daily tasks include distributing food to inmates, conducting security checks and ensuring overall safety within the detention center.

Roland believes his youth brings a fresh perspective to the jail.

For those considering a similar path, Roland emphasizes the importance of communication and trust, as well as the opportunities LCSD offers in career development.

“It’s a great way to start out. It’s a great organization and the job isn’t nearly what it’s made out to be in movies,” says Roland.

Roland did not attend college; however, he chose this career to help people. He recalls inmates thanking him after their release, reinforcing his belief in treating everyone with respect and humanity. Looking ahead, Roland aims to become a master detention deputy, a role that offers more training opportunities and the ability to assist both inmates and fellow deputies more effectively.

Encouraging a New Generation

Both Roland and Keck’s stories illustrate starting a career in law enforcement at 18 is not only feasible but also fulfilling. Their experiences challenge the notion that college is the only path to a successful career. For young individuals considering their options, the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department offers a supportive environment where they can grow, contribute and make a meaningful impact.

By focusing on communication, preparation and respect, Roland and Keck demonstrate young professionals can thrive in roles traditionally held by older adults. Their advice is simple, yet powerful: Just do it. The opportunities are vast, and the rewards of helping others and making a difference are immeasurable.

If you have the dedication, experience and heart to serve, we’d love to hear from you. Visit our website for more information about our open positions.

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Lexington County Sheriff’s Department Announces Up to 6 Percent Raise for Employees

As Lexington County embraces the warmth of summer, the county is also seizing this season to bring positive change to the community. The Lexington County Council has taken a decisive step to support and reward the dedicated employees of Lexington County Sheriff’s Department. Effective July 8, 2024, all positions at LCSD received a pay increase of 3 percent and current employees received a pay increase of up to 6 percent, marking a significant investment in the workforce and the community they serve.

By managing financial resources and utilizing tools responsibly, Lexington County continues to enhance daily operations and improve public safety; this pay increase is a testament to the commitment to making Lexington County a safer place.

Breakdown of the Pay Increase

Every county pay band will be increased by 3 percent, translating into a 3 percent cost-of-living adjustment for all current employees. This adjustment not only recognizes the rising cost of living but also ensures our compensation remains competitive, aiding our efforts to attract and retain top talent.

In addition to the cost-of-living increase, current employees will be eligible for merit-based salary increases of up to 3 percent, depending on their annual performance evaluations. This structure rewards excellence and encourages ongoing professional development and performance.

New Starting Pay Ranges for Patrol and Detention Deputies

The 3 percent cost-of-living increase results in new, elevated starting pay ranges for patrol deputy and detention deputy positions:

Uncertified (Detention and Law Enforcement New Applicants): $48,342.32 – $51,249.12 (depending on qualifications)
Certified:
- 0-2 years of experience: $50,287.64 – $51,249.12
- 3 years of experience: $51,741.04
- 6 years of experience: $53,194.44

Additional Enhancements and Investments

The pay increase is part of a broader initiative to improve the resources and tools available to our employees. Key updates include:

Initiation of new school resource officer positions in School Districts 1 and 4
Implementation of the Taser 10 platform with all new tasers for patrol and detention deputies
Upgraded technology and equipment:
- All new body cameras
- New interview room equipment
- Updated fleet cameras
- Replacement of 30 Toughbooks
- Replacement of 40 800MHz radios
- Replacement of 15 vehicle printers
- Replacement of 33 laptop computers
- Replacement of 37 Tahoe vehicles, for $2.8 million
- Replacement of the sally port gate at the detention center
- Replacement of a mobile message board
- Replacement of the bomb robot
- Replacement of two K-9s

These updates represent a significant investment in LCSD, ensuring employees have the latest tools and technology to perform their duties effectively and safely.

A Commitment to Our Future

By providing fair compensation and the latest tools, LCSD employees will continue their outstanding work making Lexington County a safer and more vibrant place to live and work. Together, we are building a stronger future for our community, and this pay increase is a crucial step in that journey. We remain dedicated to excellence, innovation and the well-being of our employees and residents.

If you have the dedication, experience and a heart to serve, we’d love for you to benefit from this pay increase and welcome you to the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department family. Visit our website for more information about our open positions.