South Carolina Trooper Winter 2018

South Carolina Troopers Association • 4961 Broad River Road • Columbia, SC 29212 • www.sctroopers.org

South Carolina

TROOPER Volume 32, Number 3 Winter 2018

www.sctroopers.org

SCHP Welcomes First Female Troop Commander: Shawna Gadsdsen Also in this issue: 2018 Scholarship Winners Announced

South Carolina Trooper | Winter 2018 | 1

SCTA Board of Directors

Mark A. Gosnell

B.G. Dewitt

W.C. West

M.D. Tomson

T.J. Riddle

Executive Director

President

Vice President

Secretary

Treasurer

J.D. Gilbert

M. V. Harris

T.E. Nance

Vacant

R.J. Gannon

Troop One

Troop Two

Troop Three

Troop Four

Troop Five

VACANT

S.M. Williams

G.M. Colbert

Vacant

Chuck Norton

Troop Six

Troop Seven

HQ

BPS Representative

STP Representative

CHANGE OF ADDRESS FORM If you are moving, or have moved, please let us know!

Simply fill out the information below and mail it to: SCTA Office, 4961 Broad River Road, Columbia, SC 29212, or you may fill out an online address change at www.sctroopers.org.

RANK: _______

TROOP:______POST:______

NAME:_________________________________ H.R. Deese (RET)

ADDRESS:_________________________________

Retirees Representative

________________________________ CITY/STATE: ___________________________ ZIP

_____________________________

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MESSAGE TO OUR ADVERTISERS: As this publication is financed by monies received from advertisements, we express our sincere appreciation for your support. We strive to make this a high quality publication that will provide the best possible exposure for our advertisers. We encourage our members and readers of this publication to patronize those businesses who make this publication possible.

YOUR COMMENTS, PLEASE: Comments or suggestions are always welcome! This is your magazine, and we need your ideas for articles in upcoming issues. Send news about your county and troop events, stories, awards, etc., as well as high quality photos to sctaeditor@sc.rr.com.

ABOUT THE PUBLISHER: The SCTA is proud to publish the South Carolina Trooper magazine.

Graphics by Rachel E. Cambre. Printing by Professional Printers. For advertising questions, please call (800) 633-2236, ext. 10.

VOLUME 32, NUMBER 3 ● WINTER 2018

CONTENTS

F E AT U R E S : 11 Remembering Our Heroes: John Clinton 12 I-385 Interstate Dedication 14 Troop Seven Welcomes First Female Commander 18 SC LEAP Welcomes New Chaplain 22 SCTA Announces 2018 Scholarship Recipients

Page 11

28 Troop Corner: Troop One 32 Troop Corner: Troop Two 36 Troop Corner: Troop Three 38 Troop Corner : Troop Four 40 Troop Corner: Troop Five Page 12

42 Troop Corner: Troop Six 44 Troop Corner: Troop Seven 46 Trooper Edwards Benefit Thank You 48 Troop Corner: BPS 50 Troop Corner: STP 52 Troop Corner: Retirees

Page 14

54 SCTA Annual Christmas Dinners

D E PA R T M E N T S 4 5 6 7 9 9 10

Letters to the Editor Executive Director Director Colonel Chaplain In Memoriam Line of Duty Deaths

16 Legal Assistance 24 Trooper Promotions & Retirements 25 News Briefs 56 Sponsor Members 59 Store Items

South Carolina Troopers Association 4961 Broad River Road ● Columbia, SC 29212 www.sctroopers.org ● office@sctroopers.org South Carolina Trooper | Winter 2018 | 3

Dear SCTA.....

Letters to the Editor Dear SCTA,

Dear SCTA,

I want to thank you for everything you have done for me and my family. It makes me feel good knowing I’m a member of such a great organization.

I would like to thank the South Carolina Troopers Association for the scholarship award. It was an honor to be selected as a recipient. The scholarship is a big help for my education and is appreciated very much.

Mark, you are a stand up guy. May God continue to bless you.

Thank you, Tim Edwards & Family Dear SCTA, Please accept my sincere appreciation for selecting me as a 2018 scholarship recipient. I would especially like to thank the SCTA Board of Directors and the SCTA Executive Staff for their consideration and generosity.

Sincerely, Chad Fairey

Thanks, Caroline Felder Dear SCTA, Thank you so much for the $1,000 scholarship.

Words seem so inadequate to describe my appreciation for your generosity. I appreciate the reduction in my cost of tuition. It certainly helped with the numerous fees associated with college.

My family and I are so grateful for your financial support of my academic endeavor. Thank you again for your generosity and support.

Sincerely, Evan Graves

AAA MEMBERSHIP FOR SCTA RETIREES The SCTA has finalized the procurement of AAA Motor Club membership for all retired members of the SCTA. This free coverage, which is the same coverage that active troopers receive, is a basic coverage that provides free towing for three miles.

For only $30, you can upgrade your coverage, through AAA, to enhance your towing to 100 miles.

You will also have the option to pay AAA to add additional family members.

If you are already a member of AAA, do not cancel your coverage! When you receive renewal notification from AAA, contact Diane Rollison so she can notify AAA that the association will pay the basic coverage and AAA will bill you for any upgraded options.

Please note that since the Association is paying the cost of this new benefit, you must notify the SCTA Office if you want this coverage.

To ensure enrollment, or if you have any questions, please e-mail Diane at dianerollison@sctroopers. org or call the SCTA Office at 800-633-2236, ext. 10.

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Message from the Executive Director During the past several months I have attended several ceremonies honoring our fallen troopers, including the I-385 Highway dedication for Trooper Daniel Keith Redmond. These ceremonies serve as a reminder to each of us of the ultimate sacrifice that these Troopers and their families have made to our state and the law enforcement profession.

It also serves as a reminder of the ever-present dangers and challenges that law enforcement officers are exposed to daily. While these dangers have increased over the past several years, the public’s perception and support of law enforcement has diminished, due in part to several highprofile use of force incidents. These incidents have not precluded law enforcement officers from placing themselves in harm’s way each day to serve and protect our citizens.

Mark A. Gosnell (RET)

Whether it is responding to a collision, effecting an arrest of an impaired driver or other criminal activity, or being deployed to the coast for an extended period to assist with a hurricane evacuation and recovery efforts, these men and women stand ready to respond to any situation and perform their duties with the utmost professionalism, fairness and compassion.

While we continue to effect change within the law enforcement profession and confront this ever-changing environment confronting our Troopers and DPS officers, our Troopers continue to work each day undeterred, willing to make the necessary sacrifices to serve and protect the public. For this dedication we owe each of our law enforcement officers a debt of gratitude.

www.sefl.com

800.637.7335

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Message from the Director Each day as I read the news, I realize just how much society and technology are changing and just how much criminal behavior has changed with it. That means the face of law enforcement has --and must continue-adapting and evolving, too.

That is why Colonel Williamson and I continue to push hard to secure funding for the best vehicles, firearms, training and, of course, compensation to meet the evolving challenges in law enforcement.

We saw an example of just how important this advanced training was in 2016 when we were called to an active shooter scene at an elementary school in the Upstate. Fortunately, we had already begun active shooter training years earlier, and our officers were on the scene quickly, helping secure the school.

Leroy Smith

Gone are the days when a trooper’s primary role was enforcing the laws on the highways. In the past, we would have relied on our Advanced Civil Emergency Response Team (ACERT) to handle outbreaks of violence and civil disturbances. And these specialized teams are still vitally important, but as civil unrest and incidents of active shootings have been on the rise around our country, we must now ensure our troopers and officers are properly trained and equipped for the unknown.

Our officers now help keep the peace not only during Bike Week activities, but this is the second year we have provided assistance (i.e., high visibility patrol, proactive enforcement efforts, community outreach) to the city of Myrtle Beach during the peak tourist season.

Our newly formed Criminal Interdiction Unit means boots on the ground in fighting dangerous drugs being transported on our highways. We are now equipped with K9s, which are trained to track dangerous suspects.

To be properly equipped, however, requires adequate funding. We have worked diligently this year to ensure our elected representatives continue to understand these challenges in public safety. We were fortunate to receive funding this year to help us meet those needs. I want to share with you some of the highlights of this year’s budget because I think they illustrate just how important this new reality is in policing: For this fiscal year (2018/2019), SCDPS received $2.025 million in recurring funds for Highway Patrol overtime. The overtime funding will be used for special events such as college football, the Carolina Cup and holiday enforcement details.

We also received funding for equipment including an additional $100,000 in recurring funds for Taser and $82,523 in recurring funds to purchase body armor for new trooper trainees. Re-allocation of internal/existing funding has allowed us to purchase and/or implement the following plans/ solutions: (CONTINUED ON PAGE 8)

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Message from the Colonel Another busy summer travel season has come to a close, and I hope that each of you enjoyed some well-deserved vacation time with your family and friends. Your continued dedication during these especially busy times is greatly appreciated.

As you know, the state welcomes millions of visitors and out-of-state travelers each year, especially during the summer months. They flock to our beautiful state to experience the diverse attractions and southern hospitality that can be found throughout South Carolina. This robust travel and tourism industry contributes to the economic development and community growth opportunities that make South Carolina one of the best places in the country to live, work, and vacation.

The citizens and visitors rely on the Highway Patrol to help create a safe environment for traveling in our state. As ambassadors for the Department of Public Safety and for the state, troopers are also expected to perform their duties in a manner that is professional and in keeping with the Patrol’s long-standing tradition of excellence.

Christopher Williamson

This proud tradition of excellence was built by men and women—just like you and me—who were committed to public service, and who were good stewards of the responsibilities entrusted to them. Two of these legendary leaders were recently honored for their outstanding service: •

In October of last year, Colonel P. F. Thompson was the first state trooper to be inducted into the South Carolina Law Enforcement Officers Hall of Fame for meritorious service. Colonel Thompson was honored posthumously for his life’s work which included the distinction of being the longest serving Highway Patrol commander in the state’s history. He led the law enforcement division for more than 20 years from 1956 to 1977.

•

On July 25, 2018, the late Major Israel Brooks, Jr. was the Highway Patrol’s second meritorious service honoree to be inducted into the Hall of Fame. Major Brooks had a lifetime of historic accomplishments but was perhaps best known for integrating the South Carolina Highway Patrol in 1967 when he became the first African-American highway patrolman in this state.

Tributes like these remind us of the Patrol’s pioneering and courageous spirit, which has endured for generations and kept this organization on the leading edge in the law enforcement community. The torch is now in our hands.

We see evidence of the Highway Patrol’s courageous and innovative spirit each time a trooper is honored for outstanding performance or an exceptional act of bravery. We see evidence of the pursuit of excellence every day as troopers take pride in consistently operating at the highest levels of integrity and professionalism. I am committed to doing my part by supporting you, doing all that I can to protect your interests, and providing progressive leadership with clear direction that represents the collective ideals of the Highway Patrol family.

(CONTINUED ON PAGE 8) South Carolina Trooper | Winter 2018 | 7

DIRECTOR'S MESSAGE

COLONEL'S MESSAGE

(Continued from page 6)

(Continued from page 7)

• Laptop Lifecycle Replacement – We have implemented a four-year lifecycle replacement plan for laptops (for law enforcement officers).

By working closely with other SCDPS divisions and various community partners, we are finding promising new approaches to reducing traffic collisions and fatalities in South Carolina. Recognizing that training, accountability, teamwork, and communication are crucial to the success of the department, I have asked my leadership team to utilize these constructs as the framework for our efforts to engineer the right balance of progress and stability that will serve our mission and empower the entire workforce to achieve their personal and career goals.

My vision for the South Carolina Highway Patrol is for it to always be recognized as a respected, ethical, cohesive and forward-thinking department that values excellence. I believe this vision is shared by all those who have a vested interest in the success of this organization.

As we move into the winter months and approach the challenges that come with colder weather and holiday travel, let’s remember that we have the opportunity and the ability to represent our agency, our community, and our state with the same standards of excellence that we inherited from those who came before us.

May God bless you and keep you safe.

• Patrol Rifles – We will be purchasing Patrol Rifles to replace the shotguns. A limited number of shotguns will be kept for training purposes, for A-CERT needs, and for any other agency (DPS) needs.

• Case Management System - We will establish an integrated case management solution to eliminate some of the entry redundancies that are associated with the various programs currently in use (i.e., SmartCop, Police Central, Report Beam, Trooper Console).

In addition to these more notable developments, we are also continuing to hear from and respond to feedback from our uniformed personnel through suggestion boxes, Troop visits, and more.

One of your suggestions was for mock turtlenecks, and we listened. SCDPS law enforcement officers will now be allowed to wear mock turtlenecks that will be issued by the department. SCDPS law enforcement officers will be permitted to wear the mock turtleneck in lieu of the tie and tie tack only while wearing a Class A (Winter Dress) uniform.

The mock turtleneck will only be worn for regularly assigned duties such as routine patrol.

And finally, I want to let you know of an exciting development in terms of wellness and coping with stress. In early 2019, we will be holding a Stress Management and Wellness Training Workshop for troopers and Telecommunications personnel.

Law enforcement is an inherently dangerous and stressful profession. While we are working to streamline processes and take other positive steps to reduce on-the-jobs stresses and frustrations, we want to ensure that each trooper and other key personnel have the right coping tools to help manage both on-the-job stress and balance work/ family life.

I am excited about these developments in 2018.

I want to thank each of you for a “job well done” and ensure you that more positive developments such as these are on the forefront.

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8 South Carolina Trooper | Winter 2018 |

Message from the Chaplain The Choice is Yours I just got back from visiting my four grandchildren in California. I’ve been asked about my favorite part of trip. This is where I have a dilemma. Do I choose one of the dining experiences, one of the sightseeing opportunities, shooting hoops with Wyatt, playing trains with Nicholas, or playground adventures with Eli and Alex? It dawned on me that I did not have a single thing that took precedent. The entire trip was filled with many wonderful small remembrances.

This realization caused me to consider some of the experiences that Simon Peter had. When someone needed to step up, Simon was always there.

When all the disciples were afraid as Jesus walked up to their boat (He was walking on water), it was Simon who stepped out onto the water to meet Jesus. There can be no doubt that Simon was courageous.

CPT Richard I. Coleman (RET) SCTA Chaplain

So, after Jesus was arrested, why did Simon deny that he even knew Jesus?

My California trip opened my eyes to the answer. It is the little things that shape us and prepare us for success or failure. In the public arena, Simon had been ready to sacrifice his life to protect Jesus. After Jesus’ arrest, he sat down with strangers around a fire and a woman recognized him; he denied that he knew Jesus. When the second stranger pointed him out, it was a little easier to deny the claim. When he was identified the third time, he easily shouted his response, “You don’t know what you’re talking about!”

Most people don’t move from faithful Christian to unrepentant sinner in one moment; we deny Christ one little bit at a time. Jesus said, “Who ever has my commands and keeps them is the one who loves me. The one who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I too will love them and show myself to them.” John 14: 21 (NIV) The story has a great ending. Jesus turned and looked at Simon. The realization that he had denied Christ broke his heart and he repented.

Keep your guard up doing the little things in life; they matter!

In Memoriam Sincere condolences to the families of the following SCTA Members: SGT Roger D. Blume who passed away on 7/19/18.

TCO L. Keith O’Cain who passed away on 7/27/18.

SGT Benjamin C. Jones who passed away on 7/30/18.

CPL Harold A. Douglas who passed away on 8/16/18.

Mrs. Virginia “Jenny” McKeown who passed away on 10/10/18.

Mrs. Theresa A. Champy who passed away on 10/13/18.

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The South Carolina Troopers Association dedicates this page to our fellow State Troopers who have made the ultimate sacrifice while serving the citizens of South Carolina. May their memories live on forever.

2017 D.K. Rebman, Jr. (Greenville)

1979 W.E. Peeples (Colleton)

2010 D.K. Cusack (Lancaster)

1974 B.W. Strickland (Lexington)

2009 J.S. Nash (ACE Team)

1973 F.H. Anthony (Greenville)

2008 J.D. Haynes (Orangeburg)

1972 R.O. Caffey (Orangeburg)

2005 J.W. Parker (Sumter)

1970 J.A. Traylor (Sumter)

2002 K.J. Johnson (Berkeley)

1970 A.A. Thomason (Sumter)

2002 M.J. Rao (ACE Team)

1969 R.V. Woods (Beaufort)

2000 E.F. Nicholson (Greenville)

1966 M.C. Steele (Chesterfield)

2000 D.T. Bailey (Greenville)

1961 J.R. Riddle (Clarendon)

1998 J. Ham Jr. (Darlington)

1959 H.C. Yonce (Greenwood)

1997 F.L. Lingard (Orangeburg)

1958 H.B. Ray (Orangeburg)

1996 R.S. Hewitt (Florence)

1956 A.R. Carter (Williamsburg)

1995 M.A. Chappell (Clarendon)

1950 A.T. Sealy (Greenville)

1994 R.L. Hester (Anderson)

1942 N. Nettles (Spartanburg)

1992 M.H. Coates (ACE Team)

1941 J.P. Monroe (Florence)

1992 H.M. Godbold (Kershaw)

1941 G.G. Broome (Jasper)

1991 D.H. O’Brien (Beaufort)

1940 H.M. Smith (Chesterfield)

1991 M.L. Titus (Bamberg)

1939 W. Bell (Lancaster)

1989 H.M. Coker Jr. (Fairfield)

1938 L.L. Rhodes (Darlington)

1988 G.T. Radford (Dillon)

1937 K.E. McNeill (Darlington)

1987 R.P. Perry Jr. (Williamsburg)

1935 E. Hennecy (Florence)

1985 B.K. Smalls (Jasper)

1934 E.D. Milam (Greenville)

1983 J.R. Clinton (Chester) 1981 D.L. Alverson (Orangeburg) 1979 R.A. Mobley (Florence)

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1934 H.M. Reeves (Richland) 1933 J.D. Cunningham (Spartanburg) 1932 W.P. Lancaster (Lee) 1931 R. W. McCracken (Chester)

Remembering Our Heroes John Clinton EOW May 23, 1983 The first time I met Corporal John Clinton was on February 14,1982. I reported to Chester and had to meet him and Captain B.M. Poore at the Chester office. We left the office and went down the bypass toward SC 72 South.

As I approached the red light, a vehicle turned from SC 72 on to the bypass and John told me to stop that vehicle. I asked why, and he said “He is driving under the influence. You didn’t see the way he turned?” I said, “No, sir.”

We stopped the vehicle and, sure enough, the driver was driving under the influence. I had not been with him but five minutes, and he had already taught me something.

John was a great supervisor and leader. He would get out and work with you anytime, day or night.

He was very neat and was very thorough in his paperwork. He would not ask you do anything that he would not do himself. It was a pleasure to go to work when he was the supervisor because you knew your day was not going to be boring.

I remember John was working third shift and asked me if I wanted to ride with him for a little bit. I said I would. We were in Fairfield County on I-77 and stopped a vehicle for speeding. John started to search the driver after learning he was driving under suspension.

John took the man’s belt off and behind the belt buckle was a knife. He told me to always look behind the belt buckle; you never know what you will find. That was another lesson.

John was not only my supervisor, but he was a great friend to me. He helped me find a house the day after I told him I was looking for one. It was an easy find because it was right across the street from his house. Therefore, we became neighbors.

John also loved to play golf, as did I. You would have to have a lot of patience when you played golf with John though. You see, he could hit the ball straight down the fairway, but I was all over the place. So, while I was looking for my ball, he was in the woods looking for more golf balls.

He would start the round with two dozen golf balls but by the end he would have almost four dozen golf balls. I always had to wait on him to finish picking up golf balls to proceed with the game. We could have finished our round an hour earlier if he hadn’t been looking for golf balls!

Then came that fateful day.

May 23,1983, is the day that I lost my supervisor and my friend. Even though I only got to work with John for a little over a year, I have a lifetime of memories of him and the things that we did.

CPL Scott Willard (Ret.)

South Carolina Trooper | Winter 2018 | 11

Portion of SC I-385 Dedicated in Memory of Trooper Daniel K. Rebman, Jr. On September 6, 2018, the South Carolina Department of Public Safety held a highway dedication in honor of fallen Trooper Daniel Keith Rebman, Jr. who lost his life in the line-of-duty on October 24, 2017, in Greenville County. The ceremony was held at Morningside Baptist Church in Greenville.

SCDPS was joined by the Rebman family and friends, Sen. Karl Allen, District 7/Greenville County, Senator Ross Turner, District 8/Greenville County, and law enforcement and first responders.

The SC Department of Transportation formally unveiled highway signs designating the Intersection of I-385 and Bridges Road the “SCHP Trooper Daniel Keith Rebman, Jr. Memorial Intersection.”

Rebman was killed last year when his Patrol car was struck from behind by another motorist on I-385 in Greenville County near Bridges Road.

“As people travel the roadways of our state, it is fitting that they see and know the names of those like Trooper Rebman whose lives were lost serving and protecting people they never knew – but they did it anyway – and that is what makes law enforcement a group set apart,” said SCDPS Director Leroy Smith.

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Rebman joined the Highway Patrol in September 2016. He served in both Charleston and Greenville.

Prior to becoming a trooper, he was a dispatcher for four years with SCHP Telecommunications.

Both his father, Dan Rebman, and Trooper Rebman’s wife, Michelle, spoke at the ceremony of the young trooper’s love for the Highway Patrol, his family and the outdoors.

“Trooper Rebman was 31 years old and had been a trooper for a little over a year. But as his fellow troopers and family will tell you, he used that time wisely, making an investment and leaving an imprint on this organization,” said Highway Patrol Col. Chris Williamson. “Keith, as his family and friends called him, had a passion to wear the uniform of a South Carolina State Trooper.”

Trooper Rebman, a native of Orlando, Florida, was an avid sportsman and participated in outdoor activities and shooting competitions. At the age of 14, he won the silver medal for men's air pistol in the 2000 National Junior Olympics.

He won another special award when he graduated with Highway Patrol Basic 99 in September 2016, the Captain Cecil Dilworth Marksmanship Award for demonstrating the best marksmanship during firearms training.

JW Clardy Construction Company is a multistate licensed, unlimited general contractor specializing in commercial projects and, as a member of the Associated General Contractors of America, JW Clardy represents AGC as a Key Member Company.

Village Square Shopping Center

Thank you, State Troopers, for your service!

1309 Professional Drive Myrtle Beach, SC 29577 843-449-5016 jwclardy.com South Carolina Trooper | Winter 2018 | 13

SCHP Troop Seven Welcomes First Female Commander On June 12, 2018, the South Carolina Department of Public Safety promoted Shawna Gadsden to lead the Troop Seven/Orangeburg region of the Highway Patrol following the retirement of Captain Keith Grice. Captain Gadsden will be the first female to lead a regional Highway Patrol Troop.

“Capt. Gadsden has a true passion for public service and a commitment to lowering highway collisions and fatalities,” said SCDPS Director Leroy Smith “She is well-respected among her peers and will be an asset to the communities of Troop Seven.”

Gadsden, who has served with the Highway Patrol for 25 years, previously held the position of lieutenant/executive officer in Troop Six/Charleston since 2013. She succeeded Capt. Keith Grice who was with the Highway Patrol for 30 years, including five years as Troop Seven commander.

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“Capt. Gadsden has invested her entire career in serving with the Highway Patrol,” said SCHP Colonel Chris Williamson. “We are truly fortunate to have a leader with her extensive knowledge of the Highway Patrol – both from the administrative and enforcement sides.”

Gadsden began her career in Lexington in 1993, transferring to Charleston County in Troop Six in 1994. Gadsden was promoted to corporal in 2002 and later to sergeant in 2008 in Troop Six/ Post B (Dorchester and Colleton Counties). She became first sergeant in 2011 in Post A (Berkeley and Charleston Counties). Most recently, she had served as lieutenant (since 2013) in Troop Six Headquarters.

We are a proud supporter of our State Troopers.

South Carolina Trooper | Winter 2018 | 15

With the SCTA’s Legal Assistance Benefit…

“Do I need Board approval?” NO!

“Do I need the general membership’s approval?” NO!

“Will personalities be involved in my request” NO!

Under the Legal Assistance Benefit of the SCTA, only three simple questions are asked: 1. Are you an SCTA member in good standing?

2. Were you an SCTA member on the day of the incident?

3. Was the incident within the scope of your official duties as a State Trooper?

As an SCTA member, you have available to you 24-hour, on the scene coverage.

The SCTA is here for you when it counts!

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A Shooting or an Accident…

Nobody likes to think about it!

But, it can happen to any State Trooper at any time.

There’s a shooting or a serious accident….someone is hurt…you’re involved.

As an SCTA member, you are not alone! The SCTA is here to protect your rights.

If it happens to you: •

Don’t panic! Calm down and compose yourself.

•

Don’t rush into making a statement.

If you are asked to make a statement, call O’Leary Associates

1-866-521-1078 O’Leary Associates will provide you with an attorney prior to making a statement -either on the scene or wherever needed.

Wait until you talk to the SCTA Attorney before making any statements, oral or written.

The SCTA is serious about protecting you!

South Carolina Trooper | Winter 2018 | 17

The South Carolina Law Enforcement Assistance Program Welcomes Chaplain David A. Tafaoa to the SCLEAP Staff June 2018 The member agencies of The South Carolina Law Enforcement Assistance Program (SLED, SCDPPPS, SCDNR, SCDPS and The OAG) are pleased to welcome DAVID A. TAFAOA to serve as a Public Safety Chaplain on the staff of SCLEAP. Many Public Safety Personnel across our state already know Dave Tafaoa. Dave has had a 35+ year career in public safety starting in 1980 when he was a student at Bob Jones University spanning to May 2018 when he retired from SLED at the rank of Major. His duties have included: South Carolina Law Enforcement Division Major, Counter-Terrorism Operations, September 2011- May 2018 Major, Homeland Security, September 2010 – September 2011 Captain, Counter-Terrorism Operations, October 2006 – September 2010 Senior Agent, Bomb Squad, November 2002 – October 2006 Senior Agent, Arson Investigative Section, October 1993 – 2002 Greenville City Police Detective Division, 1989 – October 1993 Uniform Patrol, 1983 – 1989 Police Reserves, 1982 – 1983 Greenville County EMS Reserves, 1982 -1989 Bob Jones University Department of Public Safety, 1980 -1982

Dave Tafaoa was born in San Francisco and raised in the State of Hawaii. He is a graduate of Hanalani Christian High School in Wahiawa, Hawaii. He came to South Carolina in order to attend Bob Jones University. He graduated from BJU in 1983. Dave’s professional trainings and certifications are too numerous to mention in this limited space.

As he neared the end of his Law Enforcement Career, he enrolled in the first Cohort of the Public Safety Chaplaincy Certification Program offered

by Lutheran Theological Southern Seminary & Lenoir Rhyne University.

After completing the 18-month training program, Tafaoa received his certification in Public Safety Chaplaincy from Lenoir-Rhyne University.

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SCTA Awards $6,000 In 2018, as in years past, the South Carolina Troopers Association proudly awarded $6,000 in scholarships, Scholarships are available to SCTA members in good standing as well as dependents of SCTA members.

Congratulations to the 2018 Scholarship Recipients, and best of luck to all of them in their scholastic endeavors.

Austin G. Elgin, son of CPL Gregory Elgin, is a graduate of Belton Honea Path High School, in Honea Path and is a rising sophomore at Anderson University in Anderson, SC. He has been a volunteer at Rock Springs Fire Department since he turned 13 years old. Austin has a passion for serving and protecting others which has led him to continue developing his knowledge and expertise in the field as he works toward a bachelor’s degree in Emergency Services Management.

Austin spends his free time volunteering at Rock Springs Fire Department, Anderson Fire Department, and Newspring Church where he leads a group of rising 7th grade boys. He also enjoys running, spending time at the lake, and watching sports--specifically Clemson Tiger Football.

Charles Burke (Chad) Fairey, from Greenwood, is the son of SGT Clint and Angela Fairey. Chad graduated from Ninety Six High School in May of 2018 and will attend Clemson University where he plans to major in Business Administration. While at Ninety Six High School, Chad played on back-to-back State Championship baseball teams and was named MVP of the Wildcat baseball team both his junior and senior seasons. He was a four time All-Region selection and a three time All-State selection. He committed to play baseball for Clemson as a high school sophomore and now looks forward to playing for the nationally ranked Clemson Tigers.

When Chad is not studying or playing baseball, he enjoys fishing, hunting, and traveling.

Caroline Grace Felder, daughter of CPT and Mrs. Art Felder of Lexington, is pursing her degree in Early Childhood Education at the University of South Carolina-Aiken. She enjoys working with children and is very involved in her church.

Caroline enjoys singing as well as playing the piano and violin.

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in Scholarships Jaylon Goodwin, son of L/CPL Ellery D. Goodwin of Columbia, is a junior at Furman University. He is majoring in Biology on the pre-medical track; he plans to attend medical school after graduating from Furman. Jaylon has been involved with the Student Government Association and will serve as the Junior Class Secretary this school year.

He is also involved in Pauper Players, a musical theatre organization on campus and is a part of the Orientation Staff as an O-Leader .

While at Furman, Jaylon has served as secretary for the Furman University Chapter of the NAACP and as the secretary for the Student League for Black Culture. Outside of his academics, extracurricular activities, and study abroad experiences, Jaylon enjoys having spontaneous dance parties with his friends, watching Grey’s Anatomy on Netflix, and relaxing with his 9-month-old nephew, Ashton.

Evan Graves, son of L/CPL Stephen Graves and Kristen Graves of Elgin, will be majoring in engineering at Clemson University. Evan enjoys traveling, running, and spending time with family and friends.

Jordan Elizabeth Knox, daughter of CPL Gill & Amy Knox, grew up in Richburg. She graduated with honors from Lewisville High School and is majoring in Pre-Veterinary science at Clemson University.

Jordan has made the Clemson Dean's list both semesters of her first year and is currently the chairman of the National Block and Bridle club. Jordan just completed a summer long internship at the Carolina Place Animal Hospital.

Her ultimate goal is to attend the University of Georgia to earn a doctorate in Veterinary Science and open her own clinic where she can work with both large and small animals.

Be sure to check the SCTA website, www.sctroopers.org, in January 2019 for the 2019 Scholarship Application!

South Carolina Trooper | Winter 2018 | 23

TROOPER PROMOTIONS & RETIREMENTS PROMOTIONS CPT Shawna N. Gadsden, Troop 7-HQ, was promoted on 6/8/18.

F/SGT Bradley G. Dewitt, Troop 8-HQ, was promoted on 9/2/18.

F/SGT Johnnie L. Godfrey, Troop 4-Post A, was promoted on 9/2/18.

SGT Tommy J. Brooks, Troop 9-MAIT, was promoted on 9/2/18.

SGT James F. Brown, Jr., Troop 2-Post B, was promoted on 9/2/18.

SGT Frank T. Cherry, Troop 5-Post B, was promoted on 9/2/18.

SGT Joseph C. Elliott, Troop 1-Post D, was promoted on 9/2/18.

SGT Amery S. English, Troop 8-CIU R2, was promoted on 5/17/18.

SGT Michael Z. Hassen, Troop 4-Post B, was promoted on 9/2/18.

SGT Mark E. McDonald, Troop 6-Post A, was promoted on 9/2/18.

SGT Ryan H. Olney, Troop 4-Post D, was promoted on 9/2/18.

SGT Russell F. Thompson, Troop 3-Post C, was promoted on 9/2/18.

SGT Daniel J. Utley, Troop 5-Post D, was promoted on 9/2/18.

CPL David C. Andis, Troop 9-MAIT, was promoted on 9/2/18.

CPL Ricky L. Church, Troop 1-Post C, was promoted on 9/2/18.

CPL John W. Ellis, II, Troop 5-Post B, was promoted on 9/2/18.

CPL. Robert H. K. Gleich, Troop 7-Post B, was promoted on 9/2/18.

CPL James A. Howell, Troop 6-Post B, was promoted on 9/2/18.

CPL Judd Jones, Troop 11-Office of Community Relations, was promoted on 9/2/18.

CPL Brian C. Pitts, Troop 3-Post C, was promoted on 9/2/18.

24 South Carolina Trooper | Winter 2018 |

CPL Jacob L. Rodgers, Troop 5-Post A, was promoted on 9/2/18.

CPL Christopher Rowe, Troop 3-Post B, was promoted on 9/2/18.

CPL Mark W. Turner, Troop 9-MAIT, was promoted on 9/2/18.

CPL Travis D. Wilson, Troop 3-Post A, was promoted on 9/2/18.

RETIREMENTS CPT Anthony K. Grice, Troop 7-HQ, retired 6/7/18.

CPT Rickie D. Grubbs, Troop 11-HQ, retired 6/30/18.

LT Bruce S. Brock, Troop 9-MAIT, retired 6/22/18.

LT James E. Strait, III, Troop-HQ, retired 7/31/18.

F/SGT Craig L. Herring, Troop 1-Post C, retired 8/16/18.

F/SGT Oliver Milhouse, Jr., Troop 4-Post B, retired 6/15/18.

F/SGT Thomas E. Stone, Troop 2-Post C, retired 09/20/18.

SGT Rodney A. Frick, Troop 11-CEF, retired 10/1/18.

CPL John C. Lamb, Troop 1-Post B, retired 8/14/18.

L/CPL Kelly W. Anderson, Troop 9-MAIT, retired 6/11/18.

L/CPL Jonathan L. Craig, Troop 9-MAIT, retired 6/30/18.

L/CPL Jimmy B. King, II, Troop 5-Post B, retired 7/18/18.

L/CPL Michael B. Lusk, Troop 3-Post B, retired 8/15/18.

L/CPL Christopher H. Mace, Troop 3-Post D, retired 8/3/18.

L/CPL Joseph B. Stewart, Troop 3-Post D, retired 7/30/18.

L/CPL William A. Stone, Troop 3-Post A, retired 6/30/18.

L/CPL Brian T. Williams, Troop 8-SIT, Retired 8/1/18.

Administrative Assistant Cynthia F. Cuttino, Troop 4-HQ, retired 6/30/18.

Administrative Assistant Gina B. Kennerly, Troop 7-HQ, retired 6/30/18.

News Briefs On June 20, 2018, SCTA President Brad Dewitt swore in the new Troop One Representative, Jason Gilbert.

CPL J.S. Smith assisted with Hurricane Florence aftermath on SC 145 in Chesterfield County.

The Whiskey Fish Tavern 3415 US-17 BUS Garden City, SC 29576

South Carolina Trooper | Winter 2018 | 25

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26 South Carolina Trooper | Winter 2018 |

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South Carolina Trooper | Winter 2018 | 27

SCHP TROOP ONE: Clarendon, Kershaw, Lee, Lexington, Richland, Sumter As we close out our enforcement efforts for the ‘100 Deadly Days of Summer’ and transition into the fall season, I encourage our Troop One troopers to continue the grind to reach our goal of Target Zero. As we all know, the fall season brings new challenges such as football season, hurricane season, start of school and many festivals within our communities. It is vital that we stay the course and continue to work hard to keep our highways and communities safe for our citizens and many visitors that travel through our state. As always, it is an honor to serve as the Troop One Commander and to lead such a wonderful group of young men and women that make up our troop. I admire the sacrifice that you and your families make for our organization on a daily basis! ~ Captain Billy K. Floyd, Jr.

Member Spotlight: Trooper Steven G. Sawyer, Jr. Troop One, Post C

Trooper Steven Sawyer was born in Anderson, South Carolina, and attended Westside High School where he played baseball, football and wrestled. After graduating from high school, he went to Lander University and studied Sociology with an emphasis in Criminal Justice. While at Lander, he met his wife Kristie who is an elementary teacher at Batesburg-Leesville primary school.

Steven and Kristi got married shortly after he joined the patrol, and they have a son, Joel Dalton Sawyer, who was born August 10, 2017.

“I enjoy working for the highway patrol because every day is different; sure, you have to write tickets and work collisions, but you just never know when something interesting is going to happen,” says Sawyer.

He continues, “ I could never see myself 28 South Carolina Trooper | Winter 2018 |

sitting behind a desk answering phone calls all day." Trooper Sawyers enjoys working for the public, and he has fun helping those who want and need the patrol’s assistance.

“I try and come to work every single day with a positive attitude,” says Sawyer. “Success is no accident. It is the result of hard work, perseverance, learning, studying, sacrificing, and most of all, loving what you are doing or learning to do.”

Sawyer says he loves what he does, and he cannot imagine what it is like for people who wake up in the mornings and dread going to work.

Reflecting on his passion for his job as a State Trooper, he says, “Yes, I consider myself lucky to say I love my job and what I am able to do with my job.”

“I have had the privilege of supervising Trooper Sawyer for the past two years. Sawyer is an exemplary employee, and he is relentless in his efforts to reduce traffic fatalities in his enforcement efforts. He is always willing to give 110 percent. Sawyer is definitely the employee that every supervisor wants to have. His demeanor with the public and his fellow employees is wonderful. He just has that personality that makes him a very likeable person." F/Sgt C.L. Herring

South Carolina Trooper | Winter 2018 | 29

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South Carolina Trooper | Winter 2018 | 31

SCHP TROOP TWO:

Abbeville, Edgefield, Greenwood, Laurens, McCormick, Newberry, Saluda The men and women of Troop Two come prepared each and every day to work and perform their duties. Every member of the team contributes and makes our mission a successful one. The diligence and dedication has shown this year as our DUI arrests have increased significantly over years past. By enforcing our core values and with public education, we draw closer to our goal of Target Zero. I am proud to lead the hardworking men and women of Troop Two! ~ Captain D. W. Yongue

Member Spotlight: Lance Corporal James Timothy Edwards Troop Two, Post C Lance Corporal James Timothy Edwards, son of Jerry and Linda Edwards, was born and raised in Spartanburg, South Carolina. He has three sisters, Teresa Edwards, Myra Roberts, and the late Gina Blanton. His father Jerry is a retired textile worker, and his mother Linda is retired from Spartanburg Water Works.

Edwards graduated from Spartanburg High School in 1984 and worked several odd jobs prior to joining the South Carolina Highway Patrol. His first job was with a company that made fingernail files. He also worked at a machine shop that manufactured parts for trucks. Finally, in August of 1989, Tim began his law enforcement career and attended the South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy.

Edwards says his mission is to honorably serve the citizens of South Carolina and to lower the fatality rate through traffic enforcement/education.

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He and his wife Wendy, whom he met in Abbeville County in 1990, have been married since 1991.

They have two sons, Brody-23, and Logan-18.

In his free time, Edwards enjoys restoring antique cars (hotrods), woodworking, and working outside on his property. He is a devoted family man and spends as much time as he can with them.

"I have been fortunate to work with L/Cpl. J.T. Edwards for the last five years. Tim is an asset to the South Carolina Highway Patrol, especially Troop 2 Post C. He is a dependable employee who can be relied upon to accomplish any task that is asked of him. Tim has the reputation of being someone you want coming to you when you need help. He is well-liked by the supervisors and troopers of Post C, as well as the citizens within Post C, especially Saluda County.

L/Cpl. Edwards has served the state of South Carolina for 29 years.

Recently the community and Troop 2 came together to help with some fundraising for the Edwards family due to Tim’s health issues. It was great to see people come together in support of someone who has faithfully served their community.

As a community member said, “Tim’s one of the good guys that’s protected us for so long; it’s only fair that we help him out right now”. I would hope that each Post across the state has a L/Cpl. J.T. Edwards in their ranks." SGT Q.D. Hallman, Post Commander

South Carolina Trooper | Winter 2018 | 33

34 South Carolina Trooper | Winter 2018 |

The South Carolina Troopers Association has partnered with LegalShield to provide affordable Legal and Identify Theft Protection to our members.

South Carolina Trooper | Winter 2018 | 35

SCHP TROOP THREE Anderson, Greenville, Oconee, Pickens, Spartanburg As we enter into the beginning of a new school year our Troopers will be vigilant in watching for school bus arm violations, speeding in school zones and any other driving violations that could put children of our communities at risk. We are being proactive in our enforcement and hope to reduce traffic fatalities as well as develop a stronger relationship with the citizens of the Upstate. We strive to maintain the motto that we want Troopers in Troop Three to come to work determined and to go home safe and satisfied. ~ Captain Craven

Member Spotlight: Trooper First Class Mitchell L. English Troop Three, Post B Trooper First Class Mitchell L. English was born and raised in Easley, South Carolina. Here is his story, in his own words: I have been married to my wonderful wife Casey for three years, but we have been together for almost 15 years. We have a 15 month old son named Grady and we also have a yellow lab named Zola. We attend church at East Pickens Baptist Church in Pickens.

From the time I was old enough to walk, I was playing sports, whether it was baseball, basketball, or football. I have loved sports my whole life and if I wasn’t playing a sport I was at Clemson Football games. I spend all my free time with my family out on the lake or at the beach. On my off days I am outside working on the family cattle farm, in the woods hunting (depending on the season: turkey, duck or deer) or playing softball.

My love for law enforcement started when I graduated high school and started college. I was coaching baseball at Easley High School when I realized I wanted to do more in the community and have a larger impact. That is when I started looking into the Highway Patrol and seeing what a major difference they make day in and day out. I finally reached my dream of being a State Trooper on July 18, 2014. The highway patrol 36 South Carolina Trooper | Winter 2018 |

has a major impact in the state of South Carolina through their interaction with people on a daily basis.

I started my Highway Patrol career in Troop 3, Post C Greenville where I learned more than I ever could have imagined from some great mentors. I have been in Post B, Pickens/Oconee County for almost a year.

Working for the Highway Patrol is a great job, and I am extremely thankful to work with some of the best Troopers in the South Carolina.

Some of English’s hobbies include softball, hunting, spending time with family, and spending time on the lake. “TFC English is a valuable asset to Post B. He comes to work every day with the determination to reduce traffic fatalities on our roadways. He is a pleasure to supervise." Sgt K.N Brown

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SCHP TROOP FOUR:

Cherokee, Chester, Chesterfield, Fairfield, Lancaster, Union, York Now that summer has ended and we are in football season, 2018 is winding to a close. It seems like this year has flown by, and I think it is because of the fast pace of our job these days.

I really appreciate all of the effort the Troopers in Troop 4 give in trying to prevent collisions to stop injuries and fatalities on our highways. As I write this article, we have had a reduction in fatalities for the year and I urge you to continue your proactive enforcement efforts to continue that reduction until we get to Zero.

Thanks for all you do. ~ Captain B. J. Albert

Member Spotlight: Lance Corporal Jared W. Revels Troop 4, Post A Lance Corporal Jared Wilson Revels (Will) was born and raised in Smyrna, a small community in York County South Carolina. He graduated from York High School in 2005 and went to work for the National Park Service at Kings Mountain State Park after graduating from high school. While working with the park service, Will became a law enforcement officer and had the opportunity to travel and work in other states.

Will preferred to stay in South Carolina, which led him to pursue a career with state law enforcement. In July of 2011, at the age of 24, he decided to join the ranks of the South Carolina Highway Patrol. After completing the South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy, he was assigned back to his home county in York, which is Troop 4 / Post B. Will’s work ethic and attitude has a positive impact on his team members.

He has served as a Field Training Officer in the past, training the future Troopers of the Highway Patrol. He has always taken a more veteran leadership role in the absence of a supervisor and excercises good sound judgement on a daily basis. Will has a great working relationship with other law enforcement agencies and has been an active member of the York County Sheriff’s Office K-9 team for the past four years. He responds to all Highway Patrol dog calls and assisst with other calls when available.

38 South Carolina Trooper | Winter 2018 |

Having grown up in York County, Will has lots of friends and family members who live in the county.

He is very active in his community, from holding fundraisers at the fire department to hosting social gatherings at the church. He is a member of the Hickory Grove Church of God, and that is where he met his wife, Kaylen. They have a one year old daughter named Stella.

Will is a devoted husband, proud father, and truly a family man. In his spare time he loves to hunt, fish, and just enjoy the great outdoors.

“L/Cpl. Revels is a very loyal and dependable trooper who enjoys his profession. He comes to work each and every day with a positive attitude and can always be counted on to help with any task without questions or complaints. He has forged strong relationships with other local agencies within Post B because he realizes that this is a vital part of the overall success of Public Safety. He is a great role model for new troopers and greatly displays our Core Values of Selfless Service, Integrity, and Responsibility. It has been a great pleasure of mine to have been his immediate supervisor for the last 2 ½ years, and I foresee great things for him in his professional career.” SGT M.Z. Hassen

1247 S. Irby Street ● Florence, SC 29505

South Carolina Trooper | Winter 2018 | 39

SCHP TROOP FIVE: Darlington, Dillon, Florence, Georgetown, Horry, Marion, Marlboro, Williamsburg I am proud to work with a team full of ambitious Troopers who continue to deliver excellent results. The summer season has come to an end. We now enter the season of Autumn/Fall. Please continue to be safe and alert as you go through your daily mission.

Thanks for supporting Troop Five each and every day. “ One’s philosophy is not best expressed in words; it is expressed in the choices one makes…and the choices we make are ultimately our responsibility.” Eleanor Roosevelt ~Captain Jo Nathan Nell (Jo Nell)

Member Spotlight: Trooper Frank Virzi Troop Five, Post B The following is Trooper Frank Virzi's story, in his own words: I was born and raised on Long Island, New York, and attended Brentwood High School. I met my wife Jennifer and we got married May 28, 1995.

On June 10, 2000, our son Joshua Cameron Virzi was born.

We relocated to Florida in 2002 where I worked for Goodyear Tire and Rubber before opening my own automotive repair shops in Winter Haven, Haines City, and Oviedo, Florida. When I sold my last business in 2014, my wife advised me that I was not staying home; she suggested that I should apply with the Highway Patrol. I asked her in Florida and she said NO, South Carolina.

During the employment process, I would travel back and forth between Florida and South Carolina. Even before I had a firm offer, I purchased a home in South Carolina. My family and I felt that if it was God's will, everything would work out. Here I am, 3 ½ years later, at the age of 46, loving every day I come to work.

40 South Carolina Trooper | Winter 2018 |

I love interacting with the public and educating them about the hazards of speeding and not wearing their seatbelts. I also enjoy removing impaired drivers from the roadway and investigating collisions.

In my spare time, I enjoy restoring old homes, fishing, and spending time with my wife and son….

Oh yeah, and my two dogs Roxy and Lilly.

“Frank is a pleasure to work with. His work ethic is unsurpassed. He takes the time during his enforcement efforts and collision investigations to try and educate the motoring public as we all should. His rapport with fellow workers and people within the community is phenomenal!

I hope that everyone on this job has the opportunity to work with a man or woman of this caliber and may we all strive to be more like him.� CPL A.W. Elliott

South Carolina Trooper | Winter 2018 | 41

SCHP TROOP SIX Beaufort, Berkeley, Charleston, Colleton, Dorchester, Jasper

As we move to the end of 100 Deadly Days of Summer, the troopers in Troop Six continue to work hard and stay dedicated to the mission of the agency. As I support the efforts of each of these troopers, I also want to thank the family members once again for their support, the troopers could not do their job without the love and support of their families. We will continue our efforts to save lives on our roadways, while providing great service to the citizens and visitors of South Carolina.

Thank you to the men a women of Troop Six for doing such an excellent job. ~ Captain J.T. Manley

Member Spotlight: Trooper Daniel R. Decker Troop Six, Post C I attended a job fair in Bluffton in January 2016 that was hosted by the local public service agencies in I was born and raised in and around Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and I graduated from Pennridge High the area. It was there that I met a recruiter for the Highway Patrol. His appearance and demeanor was School in 2005. I come from a law enforcement far and above more squared away then the rest of the family and have many family members in the law agencies present. I spoke with him last and ended up enforcement community up north, many with the speaking with him longest. I went home impressed, Pennsylvania State Police. and after speaking to my wife I knew being a Trooper Growing up I never considered a law enforcement was what I wanted to do. I applied immediately and career. In my early years, I encountered bad officers, was hired and started training in July of 2016. and it left a bad taste in my mouth. Over the next decade I slowly began my transition to law enforcement. Upon graduation from high school, I enlisted in the United States Navy.

While serving in the Navy, I was trained as a law enforcement officer and was a small boat operator. I left active duty for college. While in school I worked in retail loss prevention. I then worked as a State Corrections Officer for the Virginia Department of Corrections and later took a corporate position as the Assistant Director of Loss Prevention with a retail furniture company based out of Ohio. This position required me to travel extensively, and I did not feel fulfilled in my position. It was then that I decided to make a career change.

Here is Trooper Decker's story, in his own words:

42 South Carolina Trooper | Winter 2018 |

I grew up with my mom, dad and four brothers and sisters; I am the middle child of five. My wife Amanda and I have two children--our daughter Peityn, 9, and our son Grayson, 2 . One reason I switched careers was to spend more time with my family.

One of the things I enjoy about my job is the traffic enforcement aspect and being in contact with different people in the community on a daily basis. I am a trooper and I work the road so I try to look for small accomplishments throughout the day. If I can pull over a driver, issue a citation, and at the end of the traffic stop the driver thanks me, then I consider that a small accomplishment.

Once I was able to detect a driver committing traffic violations that were creating risks not only for the driver but also other motorists.

I was able to hold the responsible driver accountable for their actions while educating them and changing their mindset with the hopes that it will prevent a collision and have safer drivers on the roadway. This is my job because it is the mission of the Highway Patrol; it is something I do every day, but no one likes receiving a citation.

If a traffic stop ends with a thank you, then I know I have accomplished the mission in that moment, and I have done my job properly. I am assigned to a high tourist destination, especially on Hilton Head Island. I consider myself an ambassador for South Carolina. Many people come here from different states and different countries, and many times when I come in contact with them, I am the first person they see here in South Carolina. I try to represent the state in a positive and professional manner.

My family and I enjoy being outside. We like to take trips to the zoo, and we love the water, so we spend a lot of time at the pool and at the shore on the island. I also love sports; I don’t play them as much as I used to but I am an avid Philadelphia sports fan and a big Penn State football fan. "“Trooper Decker shows a lot of dedication when performing his job duties. He is reliable for any supervisor needs.

His reports are always detailed and accurate. Trooper Decker has a great relationship with everyone he works with, other law enforcement, and court personnel. He is always professional when dealing with the public and violators, and he sets a good example for others to follow..� CPL J.L. Perry

South Carolina Trooper | Winter 2018 | 43

SCHP TROOP SEVEN Aiken, Allendale, Bamberg, Barnwell, Calhoun, Hampton, Orangeburg It has truly been an honor to serve as the Commander of Troop 7 for the past few months. The men and women of Troop 7 have shown their utmost dedication to saving lives everyday by putting forth tremendous efforts to assist with the reduction of fatalities within our state.

As summer comes to an end, I encourage everyone to remain focused, and to continue to work hard throughout the remainder of the year so we can continue to reduce collisions and work towards our Target Zero goal. Thank you for the job you are doing and will continue to do.

Please always remember to be safe! ~ Captain S.N. Gadsen

Member Spotlight: Trooper First Class Jonathan E. Deas Troop 7, Post C Trooper First Class Jonathan E. Deas was born and raised in Graniteville, South Carolina. Better known to his friends as “Zeke,� he graduated from Midland Valley High School in 2009 and started a career in engineer drafting at Savannah River Site. Feeling that he was missing something in his life, he joined the local volunteer fire department. After a couple of years with the fire department, he befriended several local troopers.

Zeke was always very impressed with how troopers carried themselves and admired the traditions of the patrol. In 2013, Zeke lost his grandad, and best friend, to cancer and realized that life is too short to work in a field that you do not enjoy. That same year he began pursuing a career as a State Trooper and was hired in January 2014.

TFC Deas was assigned to Troop 7 Post C (Aiken) where he is still assigned and resides with his wife and high school sweetheart, Jena, and their dog Teddi.

44 South Carolina Trooper | Winter 2018 |

Trooper First Class Deas enjoys being a South Carolina State Trooper for many different reasons, one of which he says is that “each day is different, you never know what you’re going to get. Life’s too short to live the same day twice.”

Zeke has a love and appreciation for his state and his community, and he takes pride in protecting them each day. When Trooper First Class Deas in not working, he enjoys spending time with his family, hunting, fishing, and woodworking. He visits his family’s home state of Missouri as often as he can and hopes to own a boat soon to explore the lowcountry with his wife and dog.

"In the short time that Trooper First Class Jonathan Deas has been employed with SCDPS, I have been able to see him grow and mature into a fine Trooper. He has a very positive attitude, takes the upmost pride in the uniform of the South Carolina Highway Patrol, and is strictly dedicated to hard work and serving the citizens of South Carolina. TFC Deas consistently has one of highest work ethics in Troop 7. He is dedicated in the enforcement, arrest, and successful prosecution of impaired drivers from South Carolina's roads. He is also dedicated to the enforcement of criminal drug interdiction which has led to many drug-related arrest and drug seizures. This enforcement initiative earned Deas the honor of being awarded the 2017 Troop 7 Mark Coates Award for Criminal Interdiction.

Trooper First Class Deas can be relied upon to tackle any task assigned to him correctly and in a timely fashion.

He has proven to be a very valuable asset to the South Carolina Highway Patrol and to his community here in Aiken County. Deas has been decorated twice for heroic conduct in the line of duty.

He received the Director’s Medal of Valor Award for saving the life of an infant during a traffic stop in Aiken County that occurred on October 11, 2014. Upon initiating the traffic stop, Trooper Deas was alerted to the emergency by the family of the infant, discovered that the child was choking and suffocating due to a blockage in the child’s throat, quickly worked to dislodge the obstruction, and restored breathing to the child.

Deas was also awarded the Sheriff’s Association Medal of Valor Award for his efforts in aiding in the evacuation of a retirement facility that had caught on fire occurring on August 17, 2017.

Zeke is a true hero and role model, a loyal and dedicated teammate, and he is a testament to the history of professionalism true to the South Carolina Highway Patrol." CPL David P. Dodson

South Carolina Trooper | Winter 2018 | 45

Trooper Edwards Benefit – September 29, 2018 Thank you to Lt. Phil Morris for planning and coordinating this event. This event was a success due to the assistance of Troop Two personnel along with the support of the community and the following corporate sponsors.

Gerald Jones, Augusta, GA Cormac Tactical, Beaufort, SC US Patriot Tactical, Columbia, SC Small Town Metal Arts, Galivants Ferry, SC The Hardware Store, Saluda, SC Kneece Investigations, Saluda, SC Walmart-Harbison, Columbia, SC Kunkle Oil Company, Newberry, SC SC Troopers Association, Columbia, SC JRA Exterminating, LLC, Newberry, SC Cromley’s Inc., Saluda, SC

Palmetto State Armory, Columbia, SC Level Performance Rods Founders Group International Harley Davidson, Myrtle Beach, SC Honda Cars of Aiken, SC Cromley’s Inc., Saluda, SC Kneece Car Care, Newberry, SC Palmetto Public Safety Solutions, Lancaster, SC Dixie Bell, Inc., Ward, SC Huff Law Firm, North Augusta, SC D-96 American Fishing Tour of Saluda, SC

Presentation of benefit check of $14,000.00 to L/CPL & Mrs. Tim Edwards by Lt. Phil Morris.

46 South Carolina Trooper | Winter 2018 |

South Carolina Trooper | Winter 2018 | 47

BUREAU OF PROTECTIVE SERVICES 2018 has really gone by fast, and we have faced many challenges.

Thank you, Team BPS. We will be challenged to maintain a secure and safe work environment for all our staff, government staffers, elected officials and the visiting public as we meet the challenges of handling the increased number of events on the State Capitol Complex.

I want to commend the men and women of the Bureau of Protective Services for your unwavering devotion to this agency and to the citizens of this great state. Special thanks for our officers who are assigned to the Hurricane Detail. As we continue to meet the challenges facing law enforcement, we will strive to ensure our officers are prepared to meet those challenges through additional training in the areas of checkpoint screening, basic tactical combat casualty care and the use of NARCAN. I want to thank our law enforcement partners for the many hours of assistance provided so far this year. Your personal sacrifices have not gone unnoticed. I encourage you all to stay vigilant in the area of stress management and wellness-- both physically and mentally. We stand as guardians over the areas we are sworn to protect. God bless you, and thank you for your continued dedication to our respective communities and our country. ~ Chief John D. Hancock

Member Spotlight: Lance Corporal Tammy Williamson Lance Corporal Tammy L. Williamson was born in Oxnard, California, but when she was young, her parents R.L. and JoAnn, along with her three siblings, moved to Neeses, South Carolina.

When Tammy was 15, she started working in the bakery at Giant Food World, which was the beginning of her passion for cooking, baking and decorating cakes. She made her first wedding cake when she was only 15.

After graduating from high school and cosmetology school in 1982, she went to work at Regis Salon. She worked there until she started her family and chose to be a stay-at-home mom.

Tammy would occasionally help her parents with their business, Livingston Food Mart.

48 South Carolina Trooper | Winter 2018 |

In 2000, Williamson became a manager at Schlotzsky’s Deli in Orangeburg where she met the late Sheriff Larry Williams. Since she had always wanted to be in law enforcement, in a job where she could help people, it wasn't difficult for Williams to convince her to join the Sheriff’s office.

In 2003 she became a reserve officer while continuing to work at Schlotzsky's. Eventually her passion for law enforcement led her to resign from Schlotzsky’s, and she was hired by the Sheriff as a deputy that same year.

Williamson has always taken pride in her law enforcement career and was selected as Officer of the Year, won the Rotary award for Orangeburg County and was promoted to the rank of Sergeant before she

resigned from the Sheriff's office in 2007; Tammy joined the Bureau of Protective Services that same year.

She has had the pleasure of working and protecting the Justices of the Court of Appeals, The Supreme Court, and she has had the honor of working and protecting two great GovernorsGovernor Mark Sanford and Governor Nikki Haley, along with her family, at the Governor’s Mansion.

Lance Corporal Williamson is the proud and loving mother of two fine young men. Scott, the oldest, works for SCDOT. Her youngest son Aaron is a Registered Nurse who specializes in oncology and palliative care at the University of California. She has one cat, Gizmo, and a dog, Lexi.

With God’s love and help after losing her parents and sister, her value of family and friends are even more sacred to her. Lance Corporal Williamson’s motto is “Cherish every moment, and put God first.”

"Lance Corporal Tammy Williamson is an outstanding officer who seeks to advance the agency in whatever way she can. Not only is she a vigilant and conscientious officer, she can be relied upon to step in when there are personnel shortages, even when it requires great personal sacrifice. Lance Corporal Williamson volunteers to assist with employee recognition ceremonies and other department social gatherings, and she is the first to offer her assistance when other officers have experienced personal tragedy. Tammy is a great example of personal and professional excellence. " CPT Dwayne G. Brunson South Carolina Trooper | Winter 2018 | 49

STATE TRANSPORT POLICE “As we move into the last quarter of the year, we find that our mission is more important than ever. You have dedicated yourselves to not only commercial motor vehicle safety, but to the safety of all the motoring public. You have taken the overall mission of public safety to heart as evidenced in your professionalism displayed while responding to Hurricane Florence. Whether you spent long hours working a traffic control point, serving on line patrol and assisting stranded motorists, you gave courteous and professional service to all, and for that, I thank you.

The holidays are quickly approaching which means will see a substantial increase in the amount of commercial motor vehicle traffic on our roadways. We have seen time and time again that when increased amounts of CMV traffic interact with the rest of the motoring public, the likelihood for serious and fatal collisions increases exponentially. I must ask you to remain vigilant in your efforts to stop the distracted drivers you encounter before they cause, or become a victim of, a fatal collision. We have seen an alarming increase in serious and fatal collisions caused by POV’s travelling left of center and striking CMV’s head on along with CMV’s being struck from the rear. Many of these collisions are entirely preventable, but we must continue to emphasize safe driving habits to everyone we encounter, regardless of the type of vehicle they drive.

Never be weary in well doing and be confident in knowing that every traffic stop is a potential life saved.

Stay the course and continue to be the best at what you do every day. Thank you for all that you do!” ~ Colonel Leroy Taylor

50 South Carolina Trooper | Winter 2018 |

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South Carolina Trooper | Winter 2018 | 51

Retired Member Spotlight: Captain Junne R. Jones Junne Roseboro Jones was born July 6, 1956, in Columbia, South Carolina and was raised in Lexington.

During his youth, he had aspirations of becoming a professional football player. He also had dreams of becoming a police officer or a fireman. He enjoyed fishing in his free time when he was young--a pastime he still loves to this day.

J.R. attended Lexington High School and played both football and baseball while he was there. He graduated in 1974 and enrolled at South Carolina State University.

During his third year of college, he went to the old highway department looking for a part-time summer job. While there, he encountered A.T. Morris, a State Trooper who worked out of the Lexington highway department. He asked Morris about summer employment, and Morris advised him that the Highway Patrol was hiring and pointed him in the right direction.

On February 26, 1978, J.R. Jones began his employment with the South Carolina Highway Patrol. J.R. says he felt uneasy about joining the Patrol because he had no prior experience in law enforcement and no military background.

He says he “always knew right from wrong, though, and he always knew how to treat people – treat them fairly.”

Upon graduation from patrol school, J.R. was stationed in McCormick County. His Field Training Officer was TFC Fred Kelly. He reflects that he didn’t like the atmosphere in McCormick initially since he had come from a more urban area, but the town grew on him quickly and before long he called it home.

While in McCormick, J.R. met several Troopers who influenced his life. Since his father had died when he was just twelve years old, two people in particular were always there when he needed advice; Sam Reighley and Israel Brooks were constants in his early career and not only gave him sound advice that was work-related, but also advice on a personal level.

J.R. was promoted to Corporal while in McCormick and then became Sergeant in Troop Two-Laurens County. When a vacancy became available for the Sergeant’s position in McCormick, J.R. transferred back to what was then his home. After serving as Sergeant, he was promoted to Lieutenant and then Captain over Troop Two where he finished his career with the Highway Patrol.

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J.R. has several memorable events that he recalled during his time on the Highway Patrol. The most traumatic event during his tenure was the December 8, 2003, shooting incident in Abbeville County when two law enforcement officers were shot and killed over a land dispute with SCDOT. He also drove up on the scene of a plane crash in Greenwood County where two people were killed in the Coronaca area of the county on US 221. He and another person were able to pull the pilot out of the wreckage and the pilot survived. J.R. was named Troop Two Trooper of the Year in 1988 when he held the rank of Trooper First Class.

His family attends New Hope Missionary Baptist Church in McCormick.

J.R. says he thoroughly enjoyed his time on the Highway Patrol; he made lifelong friends and had unforgettable experiences. He felt that being a role model to young kids and advising them when they approached him on how to become a Trooper was one of his most satisfying accomplishments. He summed up the interview by saying he wanted to thank God for keeping him safe over the previous forty years in law enforcement.

J.R. retired from the South Carolina Highway Patrol in 2009 and took a year off to build a shop behind his house in McCormick. In 2010, he was appointed Chief of Police in the town of McCormick. “Being the chief of a small town poses many challenges compared to being the Captain of a Troop,” says Jones. “The chief has to wear many hats, from being a road patrol officer to being an administrative assistant, and then handling all of the tasks associated with being a chief.” He says that he can do it all.

J.R. retired from the City of McCormick in April 2018 and says he is officially retired for good. In his free time J.R. helps run his father-in-law’s business, Roy’s BBQ, in the town of Plum Branch. He also spends time with his grandchildren and he still loves to fish.

Jones and his wife Linda have been married for 37 years, and they have three children--two daughters and a son. Both of his daughters are school teachers in Aiken County, and his son works for Michelin Corporation in Atlanta, Georgia.

J.R. and Linda have two grandchildren.

South Carolina Trooper | Winter 2018 | 53

Let’s Celebrate the Christmas Season!

What: Time: Cost:

SC Trooper’s Association Retiree Christmas Party 6:00 pm Dates & Locations: listed below The cost per member is $13.00; Non-members are $18.00.

The SCTA would like to invite you to come and celebrate the Christmas season with us at one of the following Regional Retiree’s Christmas Parties. These parties are open to all members and their guests. This will be an excellent opportunity for food, fun and fellowship! The gathering will begin at 6:00 p.m. followed by dinner and door prizes.

Tuesday, December 4th Wednesday, December 5th Thursday, December 6th Wednesday, December 12th

Olde House Café Shuler’s BBQ Murray’s Neighborhood Grill Mutts’ BBQ

Walterboro Latta Cayce Easley

Registration deadline is November 28, 2018. You may mail this form to SCTA Christmas Party, 4961 Broad River Road, Columbia, SC 29212 or credit card payment can be made via the SCTA Office-803-772-1124 ext. 10.

We look forward to celebrating with you on one of the dates listed above.

-------------------Please cut & return this registration form by November 28, 2018--------------SCTA Christmas Party Registration Form Please check which date you will be attending: □Dec 4 @ Old House Café, Walterboro

□Dec 5 @ Shuler’s, Latta

□Dec 6 @ Murray’s Neighborhood Grill, Cayce □Dec 12 @ Mutts BBQ, Easley Member Name: ______________________ Spouse/Guest Name: __________________ Amount Enclosed: ____________________ Check Number: Please make checks payable to “SCTA Christmas Party”.

If you would like to receive future SCTA notifications and updates via e-mail, please e-mail us at office@sctroopers.org with “SCTA E-MAIL LIST” in the subject line and we will add you to our e-list.

54 South Carolina Trooper | Winter 2018 |

Broadway Grand Prix is a proud supporter of the South Carolina Troopers Association.

South Carolina Trooper | Winter 2018 | 55

Thank You to our loyal Sponsor Members!

DIRECTOR LEVEL: Jim Hudson Automotive Group-Columbia, SC COLONEL LEVEL:

Burroughs & Chapin Company, Inc. - Myrtle Beach, SC Lawmen’s Distribution, LLC - Columbia, SC Quicket Solutions, Inc. - Champaign, IL

MAJOR LEVEL: Cormac Tactical- Beaufort, SC

JW Clardy Construction Company, Inc.-Myrtle Beach, SC

Motorola Solutions- Columbia, SC

Santee Cooper Country Club-Santee, SC WatchGuard-Allen, TX CAPTAIN LEVEL: AmChar Wholesale, Inc. - Summerville, SC

Emory Group - Duncan, SC Mountaintop Security/Technology/Entertainment - Little Mountain, SC LIEUTENANT LEVEL: DeFalco’s Automotive & Towing-Surfside Beach, SC Rob’s Auto Body-Conway, SC

Stokes-Trainor Chevrolet GMC-Newberry, SC SERGEANT LEVEL: Baker American Cycles, Fayetteville, NC

Famous Hamburger Joe’s-Surfside Beach, SC

Goldfinch Winslow LLC-Murrells Inlet, SC

Hampton Inn-Broadway at the Beach, Myrtle Beach, SC

Hilton Garden Inn, Coastal Grand Mall, Myrtle Beach, SC

Kunkle Oil Co., Inc.-Newberry, SC

Renee´ C. Robey- Columbia, SC

SC Federal Credit Union-Charleston, SC

Southeastern Freight Lines, Inc.-Lexington, SC

Swafford Trucking, Inc.-Greer, SC The Whiskey Fish Tavern-Murrells, Inlet

Trent Chambers Law Firm-Myrtle Beach, SC

Woodstone BBQ & Seafood-Florence, SC CORPORAL LEVEL: Bagel Factory, Myrtle Beach, SC

D & D Sanitation, Clover, SC Darlington Raceway, SC

Evans Family Collision-Myrtle Beach, SC

Grigg Realtor At Century 21 Boiling-Myrtle Beach, SC

Junior Women’s Club of Lake Murray, Irmo, SC

On the ½ Shell Restaurant-Murrells Inlet, SC

Raceway Ford & Chevrolet-Darlington, SC Small Town Metal Artwork, Aynor, SC Tire World-Myrtle Beach, SC

Sal & Lois Rao-Lancaster, SC John A. Volino-Piedmont, SC 56 South Carolina Trooper | Winter 2018 |

Trooper Level Sponsor Members Keenan’s Auto Service, Inc. Greenville, SC

Sharon Gentry Greenville, SC

Tony D. Hendrick Conway, SC

Brooks Quinn Hilton Head, SC

SC Trucking Association Columbia, SC

H.L. Davis Painting Greenwood, SC

Brian Hunstad Summerville, SC Walter K. Kucaba Simpsonville, SC

Edd Hiott Piedmont, SC

Litigation Supports Services Hartsville, SC

Donald W. Flickinger Murrells Inlet, SC

Kiblers, Inc. Newberry, SC

Eddie Burgess Greenville, SC

Associated Petroleum Carrier, Inc. Spartanburg, SC

Greg D. Showalter Bluffton, SC

Larry & Johanna Pritcher Charleston, SC

Michael Cathcart Columbia, SC

Burchill T. Sweeney Roanoke, VA

Boykin Rose Charleston, SC

David Clemmons Goose Creek, SC

H & H Builders Conway, SC

Danny Nicoulin Myrtle Beach, SC Sam Johnson, Jr. Conway, SC

Brent Holland Homes Pawley's Island, SC RJ & Tracy Kirby Myrtle Beach, SC

South Carolina Trooper | Winter 2018 | 57

58 South Carolina Trooper | Winter 2018 |

CHECK OUT SCHP MERCHANDISE Stock up early for Christmas!

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Property #: 1159 Address: 1 Santee Cooper Resort Dr Santee, SC 29142 â—? (Orangeburg) Size: 0.425 acres

SCHP Finest Afghan Retail: $55

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Must see this beautiful corner lot located in the Santee Cooper Resort, a gated, golf course community with lake access. Original price reduced by $6,000.

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SCHP Signet Charm 10K gold Retail: $125

For more information about SCHP

merchandise, call the SCTA store at 800.633.2236. To view more merchandise, please visit us online at www.sctroopers.org

South Carolina Troopers Association Foundation 4961 Broad River Road Columbia, SC 29212 800.633.2236

This property was donated to the South Carolina Troopers Association Foundation (501 c 3) to assist the foundation in providing benefits to the family members of Troopers killed in the line-ofduty.

South Carolina Trooper | Winter 2018 | 59

4035 Kaiser Hill Road | Columbia, SC

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“Experience it once and you will never forget it.”

J I M H U D S O N

. C O M