How LCSD’s Sgt. Willie Harris turned a childhood dream into a thriving law enforcement career

When Sergeant Willie Harris joined the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department, he was fulfilling his lifelong dream of becoming a deputy and stepping into a team that felt more like a family. Harris, a Florence, South Carolina, native, grew up inspired by police officers on television, and today, he’s living that dream while making a meaningful impact in LCSD’s Patrol Division.

When he applied, Harris knew LCSD was different. He had heard about the strong community support for law enforcement in Lexington County, a support that still resonates with him today.

“People pay for my meals all the time,” Harris said. “Why not want to come to work for an agency where you have the community behind you?”

That sense of support didn’t stop with the community. Over several years with the department, Harris has experienced firsthand the camaraderie and encouragement of his coworkers.

“If you ever get into any type of issues, ever have any questions…you know that here at this department, you can lean on your teammates to assist you,” Harris said. “These guys are different. I love working with them.”

A culture of growth and resilience

Harris’ story is one of growth. In roughly five years, he rose through the ranks, starting as a patrol deputy and moving up to field training officer, master deputy and sergeant. This quick trajectory, Harris said, is thanks to the department’s emphasis on professional development and recognizing talent.

“I never in a million years would’ve imagined getting promoted as quickly as I have,” Harris said. “But at the end of the day, when you’re out here doing your work to the best of your abilities, people observe that. The right people have observed that.”

Harris’ favorite part of his job is training recruits. He values the opportunity to teach them the right way to do things, while also learning and growing himself. This passion for training reflects the department’s larger culture of collaboration and mentorship, where deputies are encouraged to support one another and grow together.

Prepared for the challenges

As a law enforcement officer, Harris has faced his fair share of challenges. From difficult calls to emotionally taxing situations, resilience is a skill he’s mastered on the job. He credits the department with providing the support and resources to navigate these challenges successfully.

“You see a lot of different things on TV, killings and shootings and things of that nature. Once you become a cop, you’re going to see and hear about things similar to that on a day-to-day basis,” Harris said. “Being able to emotionally handle those stressors is something I’ve definitely handled really well.”

This balance between facing the realities of the job and receiving support from both peers and leadership makes LCSD stand out from other agencies.

Why Join the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department?

Sgt. Harris’ journey reflects the unique culture at LCSD which combines strong community ties, a family-like work environment and opportunities for career advancement.

If you’re considering a career in law enforcement, Harris’ story is a testament to what’s possible at LCSD. Are you ready to take the next step? Apply today.

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Meet the LCSD sergeant who is changing lives through career opportunities in Lexington County

Recruiting Sgt. Daniel Rusinyak is the driving force behind finding talented potential employees for the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department.

Lexington County Sheriff Jay Koon promoted Rusinyak to serve as the agency’s recruiter and internship coordinator in 2016. He leads the effort to find applicants ready for the exciting and rewarding career path at LCSD. In other words, he’s the first face you’ll likely see if you apply in person. His is the first voice you’ll hear when you get a phone call from the department to discuss which position might be right for you.

“Career paths within the department include positions such as detention deputies, patrol deputies, major crimes investigators, property crime detectives, code enforcement officers, school resource officers and judicial services deputies,” Rusinyak said. “The agency also offers a comprehensive range of benefits to employees.”

According to Rusinyak, the agency’s internship program bridges the gap between education and a full-time law enforcement position by providing valuable learning opportunities for college and high school students.

“As an intern, you will get hands-on experience while learning about different areas within the Sheriff’s Department,” Rusinyak said. “Areas where we’ve placed interns include major crimes, property crimes, community services, public information and special operations.”

Rusinyak often attends recruitment events, job fairs and career information sessions. They serve as a valuable platform for discussing job opportunities, career advancement and more.

“Professionalism, compassion, honesty and relationships are the four core values the agency’s built on,” Rusinyak said. “We’re a team of like-minded individuals who share the ideals of being the mentors and heroes of our community.”

Rusinyak is a combat veteran of the U.S Army. He also served in the U.S Navy. Rusinyak started his law enforcement career in the Midlands in 2005, serving as a patrol officer, field training officer and narcotics investigator before joining the Sheriff’s Department.

Rusinyak, a native of Port Jervis, New York, has three children.

Joining our team is about your career and commitment to serving our community with integrity and dedication. Interested in serving your community? We’d love to connect with you. Visit our website for more information about our open positions.

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Lexington County doubles its deputy graduates from the S.C. Criminal Justice Academy, setting a historic milestone

January 2025 marks an extraordinary milestone for the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department: a number of deputies not seen in some time are set to graduate from the South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy. These deputies, who have undergone rigorous training to prepare them for the demands of law enforcement, will soon bring their skills and dedication to the community they serve.

On Jan. 17, six Lexington County deputies walked across the stage to receive their certification as Class 1 law enforcement officers. Another three deputies will graduate Jan. 31. Eight deputies graduating in one month highlights the county’s commitment to building a strong and capable law enforcement team.

Congratulations to Gian Cibella, Kolby Fifield, Herber Jackson, Karl Leuesoff, Dave Witter, Garrett Cagle, Gus Mann and Thomas Moore.

Witter shared, “Growing up in Jamaica, I always wanted to be in law enforcement because my uncle was a police officer. I did a lot of volunteer work with first responders – law enforcement, fire, EMS – growing up. It’s always been a part of me, and I’ve stuck with it.”

His dedication to serving his community reflects the passion and commitment shared by all the graduates, who are ready to make a positive impact in Lexington County.

About the South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy (SCCJA)

The South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy is the cornerstone of law enforcement training in the state. Its mission is to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and competency by providing comprehensive training and maintaining a continuous certification process. The academy ensures that only qualified individuals enforce South Carolina’s laws.

Leuesoff, another recent graduate, retired from the New York Police Department in 2020 and moved to South Carolina in 2023.

“I’m 50-years-old, it was a great accomplishment for me to go through the Academy. I loved the experience,” Leuesoff said. “I got to experience the difference between New York, and now I know what South Carolina is like.”

State-of-the-art training

The SCCJA is a premier institution that provides centralized training for all law enforcement personnel in South Carolina. Its experienced instructors deliver a curriculum of theoretical education with hands-on training, including firearms, defensive tactics and real-life simulations.

The academy’s national accreditation by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, awarded in 2016, highlights its commitment to excellence. This accreditation ensures accountability, enhances training quality and confirms compliance with rigorous standards. As part of CALEA’s four-year review process, the SCCJA remains dedicated to preparing graduates to serve their communities effectively and confidently.

The basic law enforcement program

Central to the academy’s training is the Basic Law Enforcement program. This 12-week program is designed to provide officer candidates with the essential knowledge, skills and abilities required to perform their duties as certified law enforcement officers. Upon completion, graduates are certified as Class 1 Law Enforcement Officers, ready to uphold the law and protect their communities. The program is both demanding and rewarding, ensuring candidates meet the high standards set by the state of South Carolina.

What This Means for Lexington County

The graduation of these nine deputies marks a milestone for both Lexington County and the SCCJA, showing the county’s commitment to public safety through well-trained law enforcement professionals. These new deputies bring valuable skills and knowledge to the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department, fostering a safer community.

These noteworthy classes highlight the county’s leadership in prioritizing safety and the values of service and professionalism these deputies represent.

Interested in serving your community? We’d love to connect with you. Visit our website for more information about our open positions.

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A Year of Service, Dedication and Community Impact: Lexington County Sheriff’s Department 2024 Recap

As we look back on 2024, the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department reflects on a year of unparalleled commitment, hard work and community service. The achievements highlighted throughout the year show the dedication of our deputies and staff who consistently go above and beyond to protect and serve the Lexington County community. From major arrests and successful convictions to impactful community outreach and recruitment efforts, 2024 has been a year of notable accomplishments.

NET and CRU: Keeping our streets safe

The Narcotics Enforcement Team and Criminal Investigations Unit continued to make significant strides in combating drug-related crimes. In 2024, they were responsible for 87 felony charges among 13 defendants, with more arrests expected, including individuals involved in serious offenses such as murder and trafficking. The team’s tireless efforts led to the seizure of:

7 firearms
344 grams of cocaine
16.18 lbs of marijuana
1.68 lbs of fentanyl
344 grams of heroin
17.52 lbs of methamphetamine

Major Crimes: Bringing closure and justice

One of the most significant moments of the year was the successful conviction in the 1986 kidnapping and murder of Jessica Gutierrez. After 38 years, the arrest and conviction of the perpetrator brought closure to the Gutierrez family, providing a sense of justice long overdue. The department’s continued work solving cold cases demonstrates the commitment to ensuring that no case is ever forgotten.

Special Operations: Supporting national security

The department’s Traffic Division and Bomb Team were called to assist the United States Secret Service and the FBI during several dignitary visits. Their quick response and expert handling of the situation ensured the safety and security of these high-profile events, showcasing the department’s ability to handle complex and high-pressure operations.

Community Impact: Changing lives, one story at a time

In the West Region, Deputy John Sanders made a profound impact by changing the life of a struggling homeless teenager. Sanders took the time to help the young individual turn their life around, providing them with resources and support. The department’s Public Information Office documented and shared the story, which was picked up locally and nationally on FOX News. This inspiring story of compassion highlights the department’s dedication to making a difference in the lives of all community members.

Meanwhile, in the South Region, Resident Deputy Sebben and Code Enforcement Officer Stevenson collaborated to make significant improvements in the Haler Acre community. Their efforts have resulted in a noticeable downward trend in violent offenses, enhancing the safety and well-being of residents in the area.

HR and Recruitment: Investing in the future

The department’s commitment to developing a strong and capable workforce thrived throughout 2024. With 18 interns hosted, 57 career fairs and hiring events, three job shadow events, and 13 high school events, the department has been actively engaging with the community and exposing the next generation to professional law enforcement opportunities. The department saw impressive growth in new hires, including an 11.11% increase in deputies and a 69.23% increase in detention deputies from 2023 to 2024.

Detention Bureau: Celebrating excellence

The Detention Bureau achieved a milestone with Brittany Sawyer being named South Carolina’s detention officer of 2024. Her dedication and exceptional service reflect the department’s commitment to maintaining high standards of care and security within the detention system.

Remembering Those We Lost

As we celebrate these achievements, we also take a moment to remember those we lost in 2024. Albert W. “Al” Davis III and Roger M. Spires were beloved members of the department, and their contributions to the Lexington community will never be forgotten.

Gratitude to Our Team

From patrol deputies, investigators, detention staff, administrative personnel and everyone in between, each person at LCSD plays a vital role in serving the Lexington County community. Together, they embody the spirit of dedication that makes Lexington County a safer, more vibrant place for all.

As we move into 2025, we remain grateful for the efforts of our team and the trust placed in us by the community. We look forward to continuing our mission of service and protection, knowing that our greatest asset is the bond we share with the people of Lexington County. Thank you for your continued support.

If you are passionate about making a difference, LCSD is always looking for individuals who feel called to serve. Check out our current job openings and apply online today.

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Deputy Claus 2024: A Heartwarming recap of the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department’s holiday tradition

The annual Deputy Claus event has brought joy, excitement and a sense of togetherness to the Lexington County community this holiday season. Held each year by the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department, Deputy Claus is a mini-parade and a magical experience that has become a cherished tradition for families, children and residents.

A community-centered celebration

Unlike typical holiday events, Deputy Claus is unique in its community-driven approach. Each year, the residents of Lexington County play a crucial role in the event’s success by voting for which neighborhoods Santa should visit. This tradition is reflective of the community’s wishes, making it an event that feels personal and tailored to those it serves.

Throughout the event, families and residents track Santa’s journey in real time using the Glympse app. Just before Santa and his convoy head out, LCSD shares the live link, allowing everyone to follow the magical tour from their homes. This interactive element has become a beloved part of the event, offering a sense of connection and excitement for those participating.

Reflecting on the impact

As we reflect on this year’s Deputy Claus event, it’s clear that the magic of this tradition has only grown stronger. What began as a response to the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic has become a symbol of resilience, joy and community spirit. The event brought neighborhoods together, with families lining the streets, waving at Santa and spreading holiday cheer across Lexington County.

This year’s turnout was impressive, with nearly 6,000 votes and more than 100 miles traveled, showing the growing popularity of the event and the continued support from the Lexington County community. Families of all ages came together to celebrate, showing that the spirit of giving, joy and togetherness is alive and well in Lexington County.

One of the most special moments was the block parties along the streets of The Mill subdivision. Neighbors held Deputy Claus parties and shared snacks, drinks and other goodies streetside with their friends and even Deputy Claus.

Whether it was a surprise visit, a touching interaction or a heartwarming act of kindness, these moments serve as a reminder of the true meaning of the holiday season.

Looking ahead to next year

As the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department wrapped up this year’s Deputy Claus event, the team and community look forward to next year’s celebration. The continued support from the community and the success of this year’s event solidifies Deputy Claus as a tradition that will last for many years to come.

Get involved

As we close out this year’s festivities, we want to remind those passionate about making a difference in their community that LCSD is always looking for individuals who feel called to serve. If you’re interested in joining the team, be sure to check out our current job openings and apply online today.

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Join the LCSD family: A place of service, leadership, and support

At the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department, the commitment to both service and community extends far beyond the badge. Lt. Paula Hare, a longtime member of LCSD, embodies this dedication on and off the job. Since joining the department in 2004, Hare has risen through the ranks, serving as an administrative lieutenant and a certified corrections supervisor. What truly sets Hare and LCSD apart is the family atmosphere and sense of support that extends across every level of the department.

A Leader in Many Roles

Hare wears a lot of hats at LCSD—she handles everything from managing classifications and inmate records to stepping in as the inmate grievance coordinator. Her daily work involves overseeing important details like inmate medical conditions and legal documents while ensuring processes run smoothly.

“It is very rewarding… it gives you a sense of nobility, to know that you were able to assist someone in a way that they can use once they re-enter the community,” Hare said.

Hare’s perspective that the job is not about judgment, but about guiding individuals through the legal system is clear day in and day out. Her unique role in the detention center shows the sense of purpose and compassion that defines law enforcement careers at LCSD.

Support Beyond the Job

The values of leadership and support extend well beyond Hare’s official duties. As a supervisor, she has earned a reputation for stepping in when her colleagues need help, whether on duty or in their personal lives. When one of her officers faced a difficult situation with her teenage son, Hare was there to guide and support him.

“Being a supervisor is not just telling someone when, what, and how to do something. It’s being there for your people, getting in the trenches, and showing them that you care,” Hare said.

A Family Atmosphere

One of the things Hare cherishes most about her time at LCSD is the family-like environment among her colleagues. With long shifts that often stretch to 12 or even 16 hours, the department becomes a second home.

“We are here with one another more than we are at home sometimes, so we have to be like family, and we are like family,” Hare said.

Join the LCSD Family

If you’re looking for more than just a job, LCSD offers the opportunity to be part of a team that values leadership, service and community. Whether you’re starting your career in law enforcement or looking for the next step, we provide the tools, support and camaraderie needed to thrive.

For those considering a career in law enforcement, LCSD offers a rewarding path– a place where you can build a career rooted in service, leadership and unwavering support. Contact us today!

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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.