As your Sheriff for 16 years, and in Law Enforcement for 37 years, I truly appreciate how great partnerships are making our Sheriff’s Department successful in reducing crime; and believe that our relationships with our citizens, communities and businesses are what make Richland County such a great place to live, work and play. 

I can assure you that we are continuing to increase our diversionary programs, crime prevention efforts and enforcement strategies – all with the goal to improve your quality of life.

Just yesterday (1/23/12) I met with members of the Columbia Police Department, Columbia Fire Department and Solicitors Office to discuss how we can continue to unite all areas of law enforcement in order to protect communities. I believe in working with ALL agencies in the state and beyond to stop crime and create a safe environment for citizens. This particular meeting was just one of many RCSD participates in-- YOUR Sheriff’s Department stands ready to partner with each and every citizen and community

In 16 years we have seen crime after crime being solved by proactive police work of our deputies, citizen’s being our eyes and ears and reporting suspicious activity and success through giving people, young and old, a second chance through diversionary programs. 

Even with violent crime reduced by 1.4% in 2011* (compared to 2010), the economy is still in a tail spin and we continue to see a rise in police officers being killed and desperation in communities across the country. Crime prevention education and an improved awareness of our citizens is what will continue to reduce crime -- in no way is the fight finished. 

Every day across the country we see stories of robberies, domestic abuse and theft.  In the Midlands we see similar stories.  Even with the reduction of burglary, assaults, commercial robberies and rapes, in Richland County, we saw a spike in robberies of individuals.  This new trend, of individuals being robbed, needs to be the focus of every citizen. We must be vigilant, constantly aware of our surroundings and take steps to reduce our chances of becoming victimized.

Make 2012 the year you do not become a victim. If you do not have a crime watch in your neighborhood or business community, then start one.  Start each day by thinking ‘what can I do to reduce my chances of being victimized today. If you would like to take advantage of the FREE crime prevention training, that we offer, please call your Richland County Sheriff’s Department Community Action Team at 803-576-3119 or go to http://www.rcsd.net/ to find hundreds of safety tips and information.

I look forward to working with you in the fight against crime and in making Richland County the best place to live, work and play.

Sincerely,
Sheriff Leon Lott

 

*Go to http://www.rcsd.net/gen/proact.htm to see the complete reports.