Categories: College University Athletics

Florence, SC’s New SLED Pee Dee Regional Office to Benefit FMU Students

The new SLED Pee Dee Regional Office is set to enhance community law enforcement connections.

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News Summary

Florence, SC is set to enhance its local law enforcement resources with the construction of a new SLED Pee Dee Regional Office on the campus of Francis Marion University. This facility, expected to open in Spring 2025, will include an Emergency Operation Center and offer students opportunities for internships and volunteer work. The new building will strengthen ties between the university and law enforcement, serving as a model for future infrastructure across South Carolina.

Florence, SC Welcomes New SLED Pee Dee Regional Office

Exciting news for Florence, South Carolina! A groundbreaking ceremony took place Thursday morning, marking the start of construction for the new Pee Dee office of the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED). This much-anticipated facility is set to be erected at the bustling corner of Anne Pearce Drive and South Evander Drive, right on the serene campus of Francis Marion University (FMU). As plans unfold, the community can look forward to the building welcoming its first visitors in the Spring of 2025.

A Unique Design with Purpose

SLED Chief Mark Keel has expressed excitement about the unique design of the new office building. One of its standout features will be an Emergency Operation Center, specifically crafted for use during natural disasters. This is not just a regular facility; it’s envisioned to serve not only the law enforcement needs of the region but also as a lifesaving resource in times of crisis. As Chief Keel noted, this building is expected to serve as a model for future SLED facilities across South Carolina, showcasing an advanced and forward-thinking approach to law enforcement infrastructure.

A Tribute to a Local Leader

The origin of this initiative can be traced back to the late Senator Hugh Leatherman, who made it his mission to find funding for the project before his passing in October 2021. His dedication to seeing South Carolina grow and thrive was a driving force behind establishing the Pee Dee office. Attendees at the ceremony included the Senator’s wife, who poignantly reflected on her husband’s passion for the community.

A Game Changer for Local Law Enforcement

This new facility is being heralded as a game changer for law enforcement in the Pee Dee region. The strategic location provided by FMU not only serves as an advantageous spot but is also a huge benefit for students studying criminal justice and forensic science at the university. This connection opens the door to exciting opportunities for students to engage in internships and volunteer work alongside law enforcement professionals, creating a dynamic link between education and public service.

A Vision for the Future

FMU President Fred Carter has shared ambitions for a new 50,000 square foot building, which will be dedicated to environmental science and forestry. This future building is set to include a shared three-acre lake with the SLED office, enhancing the campus’s natural beauty while reinforcing partnerships between the university and law enforcement.

Moving Forward with Resources

The new SLED office is planned as a permanent facility. It promises to provide much better access to resources and enhanced parking facilities compared to the current rented setup located downtown. Delightfully, this will be the first standalone regional office for SLED in South Carolina, a step forward in enhancing the collaborative efforts of law enforcement.

The Construction Crew

The construction project is being carried out by the experienced team at Hood Construction, alongside the innovative designers at Moseley Architects. As this facility takes shape, there are discussions about developing additional land surrounding the SLED building in the future, suggesting even more growth for Florence and its communities.

Support from Local Law Enforcement

The ceremony gathered notable figures from local law enforcement, including the Florence Police Chief, the Marion County Sheriff, and the S.C. Department of Resources Captain. Their presence not only signifies support for the project but also the unity of law enforcement agencies in striving for a safer and more connected community in the Pee Dee region.

Florence is on the cusp of a new chapter with the construction of the SLED Pee Dee Regional Office! There is so much to look forward to as this project unfolds, promising a brighter future for law enforcement and community collaboration.