BERKELEY COUNTY, S.C. – Berkeley County Sheriff Duane Lewis hosted a graduation ceremony Tuesday for the latest class of the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) Citizens Academy.
The ceremony marked the successful completion of the program by participants who spent several weeks getting an in-depth, behind-the-scenes look at law enforcement operations in their community.
Throughout the academy, citizens had the chance to interact directly with deputies, tour facilities, and gain firsthand experience in divisions such as Criminal Investigations, K-9, SWAT, and the Hill-Finklea Detention Center. Participants also observed live demonstrations and joined deputies on ride-alongs, offering a rare inside view of daily duties and responsibilities.
“This program is all about building trust, transparency, and strong relationships between our deputies and the citizens we serve,” said Sheriff Lewis. “We’re proud of each graduate who took the time to learn more about our mission. They’re now equipped to bring that understanding back to their neighborhoods.”…