Reserve Deputy Program

More than 80 Reserve Deputies proudly serve the citizens of Richland County in almost every capacity within the Richland County Sheriff's Department.

Reserve deputies proudly serve with patrol units in all regions of Richland County as well as serving on the RCSD Dive Team, SRT Team, RCSD Bike Team, actively assist in crisis situations and provide invaluable support to the entire department.

Individuals who become Richland County Reserve Deputies serve the citizens of Richland County and enjoy being able to support Full-Time Deputies side by side in keeping our county safe and secure. These men and women freely give their time and talents and serve this county with pride.

If you are interested in applying to become a Richland County Sheriff’s Reserve Deputy, please contact:

Marie Waldrop - mwaldrop@rcsd.net
Coordinator for Reserve Deputy Program
Richland County Sheriff's Department
(803) 309-2794

Two bike patrol officers
Office standing beside patrol car

Requirements to Become a Reserve Deputy

A Reserve Deputy must complete more than 260 hours of law enforcement training and satisfactorily pass an examination administered by the South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy.

In addition, to qualify to be a Reserve Deputy, an individual must be a U.S. Citizen, at least 21 years of age, have a high school diploma, have a valid South Carolina Driver’s License, have a drug free background, have no criminal record, undergo an extensive background investigation including a polygraph examination as well as meet all physical fitness standards of the Richland County Sheriff’s Department.

Once certified as a Richland County Reserve Deputy, an individual is required to serve 240 or more hours each year, pass a firearms qualification and fitness test on a regular basis, complete all quarterly training and complete all legal in-service training yearly. Many of our Reserve Deputies go on to become full-time deputies themselves.

Reserve Deputy in front of the American flag
RD Training photo
photo of Reserve Deputy on a horse
Reserve Deputy smiling