Power of Focus and Commitment

I believe that our Nation was created and built on the strength of our military and the commitment of our police forces to make our communities safe. I know our service men and women have used the power of their bodies and minds to protect our Country from its enemies and that our military prides itself in training their minds and bodies to meet any challenge. Often, our Nation's law enforcement does not subscribe to this philosophy; nor do they constantly train their mind and body to be the professional they could be.

As Sheriff for the past sixteen years, I worked to create the most professional and the best educated and physically prepared Department by implementing educational and fitness training/requirements for all deputies. My belief is that a higher physical and mental standard is a journey and not a destination. It's a constant evolving process.

I encourage our Deputies to constantly strive to better themselves by training and competing against other law enforcement and the military. Recently, two Richland County Deputies challenged themselves compositing in the Army’s annual “PFC Boyd Junior Top Cop Competition” held at Fort Jackson (PFC Boyd Junior was a Military Policeman who was killed in the line of duty).

I am extremely proud that Deputy Scott Puckett and Corporal George Norton received the “Best Civilian Police Team” award and that Deputy Puckett placed 3^rd overall in the Soldier Category. That award recognizes the winners of the two-day long competition; which is based on a point system. In the Police Team category there were ten, two person teams from around South Carolina.

That competition is both mentally and physically demanding – just like the day to day responsibilities of our men and women who wear the badge and work to make our communities safe. I am very proud of all of the personnel at the Richland County Sheriff’s Department who work every day to improve the quality of life in our communities.