The history of the Dorchester County Sheriff’s Office has been filled with deputies serving the community with great pride. There is a rich history of the community showing appreciation to those who serve. With Law Enforcement comes unfortunate events that the community endures with those who serve. Unfortunately, Dorchester County has lost 2 deputies while on duty serving.

On Sunday, February 7th, 1988 Deputy Gary Douglas Blackwood responded to an auto accident caused by an intoxicated driver. In an attempt to keep the scene safe, Deputy Blackwood was fatally electrocuted by a live power line that fell due to the collision.

On Friday, March 9th, 2007 Corporal Phillip Michael Deese was involved in a head on collision while patrolling Interstate 26 near Harleyville after a vehicle crossed the median and entered his lane of travel. The collision caused the death of Corporal Deese, a citizen, and Corporal Deese’s K9 partner Sonja.

These 2 deputies gave their lives while serving Dorchester County on duty. It is important that we honor them in ways that will keep their service alive for many years.

This year we will see the opening of the new Dorchester County Detention Center which gives the citizens the perfect opportunity to call for the memory of these deputies to be engraved in stone. If you agree that this facility would be best named by honoring the only lives given in the line of duty while serving this great county then please join me in signing this petition. Your support will speak loudly for your appreciation of those who served, serve, and will serve.