SLED introduces new career path to enhance promotions and recruitment strategies

The South Carolina Law Enforcement, Criminal and Civil Justice Subcommittee made significant strides in enhancing career opportunities within the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) during their meeting on April 3, 2025. A key focus was the introduction of a new promotional step, Special Agent 3, aimed at accelerating career advancement for officers. This change is designed to provide more growth opportunities without altering the existing requirement of ten years of service for senior special agents.

The committee also discussed ongoing efforts to improve workforce diversity. SLED is actively working to recruit a workforce that reflects the community it serves, particularly focusing on minority and female candidates. In 2024, SLED recruiters participated in 21 career fairs across the state, engaging with colleges, universities, and veteran organizations to attract potential candidates. Community relations agents are stationed in all four regions of South Carolina to foster relationships between law enforcement and the public, which is expected to enhance recruitment efforts.

Additionally, SLED is promoting an internship program aimed at college students to spark interest in law enforcement careers. This initiative allows students to gain firsthand experience and encourages them to apply for positions upon graduation.

The meeting also highlighted turnover rates within SLED, revealing that 8.98% of sworn officers are eligible for retirement in the next five years, alongside 26% of non-sworn employees. These figures underscore the importance of recruitment and retention strategies as the agency prepares for future staffing challenges.

Overall, the discussions at the meeting reflect a proactive approach by SLED to not only improve career pathways for its personnel but also to ensure that its workforce is representative of the communities they serve. The committee's actions are expected to have lasting impacts on law enforcement in South Carolina, fostering a more inclusive and effective agency.