City recognizes two Spartanburg police officers on retirement after long service

Spartanburg City Council on Jan. 28 recognized two longtime Spartanburg Police Department employees, Lieutenant James Allen Bledsoe and Master Police Officer Christopher E. Taylor, and presented outstanding service awards.

Council recited Bledsoe’s career milestones during a ceremonial reading: he began employment with the city in September 2000 after dual certification from the South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy and the South Carolina Fire Academy, served in patrol assignments and in motor operations, and later supervised as a watch commander. The city noted Bledsoe is a military veteran with multiple deployments and praised his supervisory and mentoring roles. Bledsoe addressed the council briefly, saying, "This department's been very good to me, over the years," and thanked staff and family.

The city read Taylor’s service history: Taylor began with the city in February 1996 after service at the Spartanburg County Detention Facility, worked in criminal investigations and violent-crime cases, and later in professional standards and hiring. The city cited several major investigations and noted recognition by the solicitor's office for investigative work. Taylor spoke briefly and thanked the citizens and his family.

Council members and the mayor praised both officers for their years of service and wished them well in retirement. No council action or vote was required; the item was a ceremonial recognition.