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.

When people think of the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department, they often picture deputies patrolling neighborhoods or investigators solving crimes. But behind the scenes, another critical part of law enforcement is at work, one that uses science to serve justice. In honor of National Chemistry Week, we’re spotlighting one of the agency’s unsung heroes: Meg Walker, one of LCSD’s in-house chemists.

Walker isn’t your typical lab scientist. While her work might take place behind closed doors rather than on the streets, her impact reaches every corner of the community. For more than nine years, she has analyzed narcotics, supported investigations and even testified in court, all while based in LCSD’s drug laboratory.

“I analyze suspected narcotics that are brought in off the road, whether they’re from our narcotics division or other surrounding agencies,” Walker explained. “Day to day, I could be collecting evidence, running analyses, writing reports or even explaining my findings in front of a jury.”

Having in-house chemists like Walker gives LCSD a major advantage. Instead of sending evidence to an external lab and waiting months for results, cases can be processed locally and more efficiently, helping ensure justice moves forward without unnecessary delay.

“The positives of having a chemist in-house are that we can focus directly on our community,” she said. “We’re expediting cases, making sure they’re done in a timely fashion and that we’re available to go to court when needed.”

From Delaware to Lexington County

Walker’s journey into forensic chemistry began long before she joined LCSD. Inspired by both of her grandfathers, one a lineman who taught her about physics, and another a chemist who worked with automotive paints, she grew up fascinated by how the world works.

“I’ve always loved mysteries and problem-solving,” Walker shared. “So when I got to college, I found a degree that combined those passions, forensic chemistry.”

She went on to earn her degree in forensic chemistry with a minor in criminal justice from York College of Pennsylvania. After graduating, she applied for a crime scene investigator position at LCSD, but fate had other plans.

“I didn’t realize at the time that most CSI positions here are law enforcement roles,” Walker said with a laugh. “But they told me a chemist position had just opened up. I didn’t fully know what it would entail until I showed up and I’ve loved it ever since.”

Science, service and a little NCIS

Inside the lab, Walker and her lab partner, Kyle, form a two-person team responsible for testing a range of substances, from narcotics to THC concentration in marijuana samples. Each case requires careful attention to detail and a deep understanding of chemical processes.

“The evidence comes into our lab, and then we start the process,” Walker explained. “We itemize everything, weigh it, do initial color tests and then run confirmatory testing using the gas chromatography mass spectrometer, or GCMS.”

For those wondering what that looks like, Walker offers a pop culture comparison.

“If you’ve ever seen NCIS, it’s kind of like the machine Abby Sciuto uses,” she said with a smile. “That was actually part of the agreement I had with my mom when I went into forensics. I could be like Abby, as long as I didn’t come home with tattoos and dog collars.”

Sharing her passion for science

Outside of the lab, Walker enjoys another aspect of her job just as much educating others. She  visits local schools to talk about the world of forensics and inspire the next generation of scientists.

“I love going to schools and talking to kids about science and how cool it is,” she said. “When I tell them I work with drugs, they look shocked at first, but then I explain that I’m helping make sure those drugs don’t end up in schools or on the streets.”

She brings along test tubes, pipettes and other lab tools to help students visualize what she does. Her goal is simple: make science fun, accessible and relevant.

“With science, there’s always a problem to solve,” Walker said. “You see a reaction, you ask questions and you figure out why it happens. For me, it’s like solving one big mystery.”

Supporting justice through science

Walker’s work doesn’t end when the analysis is done. As an expert witness, she has testified in court more than 18 times in her nine years with LCSD, explaining her findings to juries in cases that impact real lives.

“Between November and April of this year, I had five trials back-to-back,” she said. “It’s a busy schedule, but it’s rewarding to see how our work in the lab helps move cases forward.”

Beyond the courtroom, Walker and her colleague collaborate closely with deputies, investigators, solicitors and defense attorneys to ensure every step of the process is accurate and transparent.

“We want to make sure the process is smooth for everyone: law enforcement, the solicitor’s office or even the public,” she said. “We don’t want anyone waiting on the justice system or otherwise waiting on a case because of delays in testing.”

Celebrating National Chemistry Week

As National Chemistry Week shines a spotlight on the vital role chemistry plays in our everyday lives, Walker’s story is a reminder that the field extends far beyond classrooms and laboratories. In Lexington County, chemistry is helping solve crimes, protect citizens and bring justice to the community.

“It’s science in action,” Walker said. “Every test we run and every result we report has a real impact on someone’s life.”

From inspiring students to ensuring accurate evidence in the courtroom, Walker’s work proves chemistry isn’t just about formulas, it’s about making a difference.

Interested in a career that combines science and public service?

Visit joinlcsd.com to learn more about how you can join a team committed to safety, integrity and innovation.

Crime can happen anywhere in Lexington County. From busy neighborhoods to quiet rural areas, everyone plays a role in keeping our communities safe. Whether you are watching over your children in a suburban area or safeguarding your property in the country, preventing crime starts with awareness and action.

At the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department, our goal is simple: make Lexington County a safer place. We can’t do it alone. You can help as a watchful neighbor, a caring parent or even as a member of our team.

Neighborhood safety: Protecting your family

Families can take practical steps every day to stay safe:

• Stay informed about your children’s whereabouts. Make sure your children ask permission before leaving home and check in regularly.

• Memorize important contact information. Children should know their home address and your phone numbers. If that is difficult, write it on a card they can carry.

• Set clear boundaries. Let your children know where they can and cannot go. Avoid busy streets, unknown areas and abandoned buildings.

• Get to know their friends. Meet the parents of your children’s friends and confirm there will be responsible supervision. Keep contact information handy.

• Identify safe places. Establish trusted neighbors’ homes or nearby public spots your children can go to if they feel unsafe.

• Connect with your neighbors. Communities that watch out for each other are stronger and safer. Stay alert and communicate concerns.
  

Rural safety: Protecting property and livelihood

Rural areas face different risks. Theft of crops, timber, livestock and equipment is a serious concern, but careful planning can prevent loss and stress.

• Secure every entry point. Lock homes, barns and storage buildings with reliable doors and locks.

• Use lighting strategically. Timers and outdoor lights can deter crime and make your property safer at night.

• Label equipment clearly. Mark tools and machinery with unique identification to help recover stolen items.

• Watch out for neighbors. While working or traveling around the county, check on neighbors’ property and report anything unusual to them and to us.

Community involvement: Neighborhood Watch programs and careers

Neighborhood Watch programs are one of the most effective ways to prevent crime. They strengthen communication, awareness and mutual support. We can help you get one started in your area.

If you want to take an even more active role, consider joining the Sheriff’s Department. Serving your community goes beyond enforcing the law, it means supporting families, protecting neighbors and standing up for what is right every day. We are always looking for dedicated individuals committed to making a difference.

Interested in Law Enforcement?

Visit JoinLCSD.com or call 803-785-8230 to learn more about joining the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department.

Be a partner. Be a protector. Be the difference.

Your actions can keep Lexington County safe and your involvement could grow into a meaningful career. Whether you are watching your neighborhood, looking out for your family or serving the county full-time, you have the power to make a real impact.

Every Sept. 15 through Oct. 15, we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, a time to recognize the rich contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans in shaping our communities. At the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department, we are proud to highlight two dedicated professionals whose bilingual skills and cultural understanding strengthen the bond between law enforcement and the community we serve.

This month, we spotlight Lt. Luis Rivera and Victim Advocate Yesenia Gonzalez-Martinez, two leaders who exemplify compassion, professionalism and service.

Luis Rivera: Serving as a bridge in critical moments

For more than 22 years, Lt. Luis Rivera, who serves as our weeknight watch commander, has played a vital role at LCSD. He oversees operations during evening shifts when other members of our command staff are off duty. In this role, he ensures deputies have the support they need, whether that means authorizing resources such as K-9s or helicopters, or coordinating specialized units such as narcotics or major crimes.

But Rivera’s impact goes far beyond administrative duties. As one of LCSD’s bilingual deputies, he is often called upon to assist Spanish-speaking community members during high-stress situations. On average, he responds to five or six calls a week where translation is needed, sometimes over the phone, but often in person.

“Google Translate works great if you’re in a pinch. But there’s a lot of slang and words that don’t translate well,” Rivera said. “When I arrive, it gives people comfort to know someone understands their language. It puts them at ease.”

That sense of trust can de-escalate tense situations, especially for community members who might come from countries where law enforcement is not trusted. Rivera has witnessed firsthand how language access can strengthen relationships, whether helping victims share their stories or ensuring suspects understand their rights.

One case that stands out for Rivera was his very first homicide investigation. The suspect and the witnesses were Spanish speakers. His ability to translate helped bring clarity to the case, build trust with victims and ultimately secure a conviction. Years later, one of those witnesses still reaches out to Rivera when she encounters others in need of help.

For Rivera, language access is not about legal status or barriers, it’s about ensuring every person in Lexington County feels heard, protected and respected.

Yesenia Gonzalez-Martinez: Advocating for victims with compassion

Victim Advocate Yesenia Gonzalez-Martinez, a native of Puerto Rico, has dedicated her career to guiding victims of crime through some of the most difficult times in their lives. With a background as a patrol deputy, she brings field experience to her role as an advocate, ensuring victims understand their rights and have access to resources.

Her focus on serving the Hispanic community is especially impactful. Many Spanish-speaking victims feel more comfortable sharing their experiences with someone who not only speaks their language, but also understands their cultural background.

“They identify with me being a Spanish-speaking person,” Gonzalez-Martinez said. “That’s why they feel comfortable working with me.”

She assists victims of domestic violence, burglary, sexual assault and other crimes, helping them access services such as shelter, transportation, legal aid and emotional support. In court settings, she often accompanies victims to provide comfort and advocacy, ensuring they never face the system alone.

Her role extends beyond immediate crisis support, she is certified as a victim service provider and participates in continuous training through the Attorney General’s Office and other agencies. Gonzalez-Martinez is dedicated to making sure no language barrier prevents victims from receiving justice and care.

“It’s important for the Hispanic community to know that we are here to help them. They have rights,” she said.

Building trust, serving all

Both Rivera and Gonzalez-Martinez embody the values of service, empathy and cultural understanding that strengthen public safety in Lexington County. Their work reminds us law enforcement is about more than enforcing laws, it’s about building trust, fostering connections and ensuring every voice is heard.

This Hispanic Heritage Month, we proudly recognize their contributions and reaffirm LCSD’s commitment to serving all members of our community with fairness, dignity and respect.