Thursday, Aug. 21, 2008

Bryant named S.C. Sheriff of Year

By Matt Garfield

Enquirer Herald

YORK -- Citing efforts to build a progressive and professional law enforcement agency, the South Carolina Sheriff's Association named York County's Bruce Bryant as the Sheriff of the Year for 2008.

Bryant, a Republican first elected in 1996, won praise for pursuing new strategies on illegal immigration and equipping deputies with better technology.

"It is quite an honor," Bryant said. "I have to give credit to my organization. This is something I think York County can be proud of. My organization is second to none."

A selection committee makes the choice, but the identity of its members is kept confidential. In presenting the award during an annual banquet in Myrtle Beach, organizers singled out some of Bryant's achievements:

u The 287(g) program, a partnership with Immigration and Customs Enforcement, or ICE, that allows local authorities to quickly determine an inmate's immigration status.

u Alive @ 25, a program that teaches and encourages young people about safe driving habits.

u A new 800 MHz radio system that allows for better communication between emergency responders across York County.

Bryant, 57, never held elected office until he unseated Democrat Joe Mitchell in a 1996 campaign. The sheriff is seeking re-election this year and has no declared opposition.

He spoke with The Herald last week about his award.

Q: The Alive @ 25 program was mentioned in your nomination. Why has it been successful?

A: It targets kids 16 to 25 years old. These classes are put on by law enforcement officers who have been trained. It talks to these kids about what to do to stay safe. It lets the kids get involved in open discussions.

There are even schools in the state, down in Lexington County, where the only way you can drive a vehicle to school is to go through the course. We don't have that yet, but our local schools are working on that. I'd be supportive of it.

Q: What's the next major initiative you plan to bring to York County?

A: In the next couple of months ... working through (national) accreditation. We're getting ready to be tested. That's going to be quite an honor. In 30 days, we'll have the answer.

Q: How has law enforcement changed during your career?

A: I started in the city of York as a fireman and dispatcher. The day I turned 21 was the first day I was officially a police officer, on the beat. The only air conditioning I had was rolling down the windows. We had nightsticks and black jacks. We had five- and six-shot revolvers.

My first crime scene, we had an old camera we had to put a big flashbulb in. Now, all my officers walk around with digital cameras. The way things have changed, it is just phenomenal.

Q: Any thoughts of retirement?

A: I'm only 57 years old. I've got 37 years in. I'm just not ready to hang it up. Let's put in another term and look at it. I love what I do, and I love serving the people.