Throughout 2025, the South Carolina Fraternal Order of Police continued to strengthen its role as the unified voice for law enforcement across the state. From sustained legislative advocacy and expanded training opportunities to improved internal systems and a growing statewide presence, the year was defined by steady progress, disciplined leadership, and a clear focus on long-term impact.

Viewed collectively, the work of 2025 reflects more than a list of activities. It shows an organization intentionally building capacity, protecting officers, supporting local lodges, and positioning itself for continued success in the years ahead.

Legislative Advocacy and Public Policy Leadership

Advocacy remained a central pillar of SCFOP’s work in 2025. The organization maintained a consistent presence at the Statehouse, engaging lawmakers through testimony, direct outreach, formal correspondence, and relationship-building efforts that reinforced law enforcement perspectives throughout the legislative process.

SCFOP hosted its annual Legislative Breakfast early in the session, providing a structured opportunity for meaningful dialogue between legislators and law enforcement leaders. These conversations laid the groundwork for ongoing engagement throughout the year and reinforced SCFOP’s role as a trusted resource on public safety issues.

Beyond in-person advocacy, SCFOP expanded tools for grassroots engagement, including coordinated outreach efforts that enabled members and lodge leaders to communicate directly with elected officials. Legislative tracking, regular updates, and timely analysis ensured that members stayed informed and aligned as bills moved through committees and chambers.

At the national level, SCFOP worked in close coordination with the National Fraternal Order of Police to support federal advocacy priorities, participate in legislative calls, and respond to emerging policy concerns. This dual-level engagement ensured that South Carolina officers were represented not only in Columbia, but also in Washington.

Training, Professional Development, and Recruitment

Training and development efforts continued to expand in 2025, with a focus on equipping officers and lodge leaders with practical tools that support both individual professionalism and organizational growth.

SCFOP coordinated recruitment training seminars designed to help lodges strengthen membership outreach and engagement. These sessions emphasized messaging, best practices, and peer-to-peer recruitment, while also reinforcing the value of early involvement in the FOP. Building on this work, SCFOP began developing additional delivery models to ensure recruitment training remains accessible and adaptable statewide.

Critical Incident Training seminars were also offered in multiple regions of the state, led by experienced National FOP attorneys. These trainings provided officers with vital guidance on navigating the legal and administrative realities that follow critical incidents, reinforcing preparedness and confidence when it matters most.

In addition, SCFOP maintained a regular presence at the South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy through bi-weekly presentations to new recruits. These sessions introduced officers to the Fraternal Order of Police early in their careers, emphasized the importance of legal defense and professional support, and encouraged long-term engagement with the organization.

Leadership development remained a priority as well. Participation in national training programs allowed SCFOP leaders to bring back updated materials, ideas, and strategies that will continue to shape future leadership initiatives within the state.

Supporting Local Lodges and Members

Strengthening local lodges remained at the core of SCFOP’s mission in 2025. Throughout the year, the organization focused on improving communication, standardizing resources, and ensuring lodge leaders had the tools needed to operate effectively.

One notable milestone was the chartering of a new local lodge, expanding SCFOP’s footprint and reinforcing its statewide reach. Continued follow-up with existing lodges addressed governance requirements such as bylaws, registered agent filings, fidelity bonds, and officer roster updates, helping ensure compliance and organizational stability.

To further support lodge leadership, SCFOP developed and distributed a comprehensive Resource Manual. Designed as a living document, the manual provides guidance on membership procedures, meeting operations, communications, crisis response, and other core functions that support consistent and effective lodge operations.

Legal Defense remained a central benefit for members. Throughout the year, updated legal defense lists were distributed to lodge presidents, benefits information was shared regularly, and educational materials were refined to ensure members clearly understood available coverage and protections.

Officer Wellness and Member Support

Recognizing the unique stresses faced by law enforcement professionals, SCFOP placed increased emphasis on wellness and support initiatives in 2025.

The organization promoted participation in national wellness surveys to help inform future policy and benefit decisions. A dedicated crisis hotline page was added to the SCFOP website, reinforcing the message that officers are never alone and that support is available when needed.

SCFOP also helped disseminate information about financial assistance options for members impacted by extraordinary circumstances, including resources available during periods of federal uncertainty. These efforts reflected a broader commitment to supporting officers beyond the badge and addressing the realities of modern policing.

Fundraising and Financial Sustainability

Building sustainable revenue streams remained an important focus in 2025. The statewide 50/50 raffle demonstrated the power of collective participation, generating meaningful support while also returning a portion of proceeds directly to participating local lodges. The initiative reinforced shared investment in the organization’s future and highlighted the value of collaborative fundraising.

SCFOP also continued promoting the Back the Badge license plate program, encouraging public support for law enforcement while expanding visibility for the organization’s mission. Alongside these efforts, groundwork continued for future fundraising initiatives and the development of the SCFOP Foundation, positioning the organization to better support officers and families in times of need.

Events, Representation, and Visibility

Throughout 2025, SCFOP maintained a strong presence at key events across the state and nation. Representation at memorials, award ceremonies, community events, and training programs underscored the organization’s commitment to honoring service, supporting families, and engaging with the communities law enforcement serves.

At the national level, South Carolina delegates participated actively in the Biennial National Conference, contributing to bylaw discussions, legislative strategy sessions, and leadership elections. These engagements ensured South Carolina’s voice remained influential within the broader Fraternal Order of Police.

Regular statewide video chats and weekly communications helped maintain alignment among lodge leaders, creating consistent opportunities to share updates, answer questions, and reinforce unity across the organization.

Digital Infrastructure and Communications

SCFOP continued modernizing its digital infrastructure in 2025 to improve efficiency, security, and accessibility. Website enhancements streamlined membership applications, improved payment workflows, and reduced public exposure of sensitive contact information.

The transition to the new national membership system required coordination and troubleshooting, and SCFOP worked closely with lodge leaders to provide guidance, training resources, and clarity throughout the process. These efforts strengthened data integrity and accountability while supporting long-term operational effectiveness.

Expanded use of blog content, email updates, and coordinated social media outreach increased public awareness of law enforcement issues and highlighted the work being done by officers and lodges across South Carolina.

Governance, Policies, and Organizational Readiness

Behind the scenes, significant work in 2025 focused on strengthening governance and preparing SCFOP for future growth. Policy development around endorsements, budgeting, compliance, and internal procedures demonstrated a commitment to transparency, consistency, and responsible leadership.

Special meetings, structured discussions, and clear timelines ensured that decisions were made thoughtfully and with input from across the organization. These efforts laid a solid foundation for continued stability and effectiveness in 2026 and beyond.

Looking Ahead

The progress made in 2025 reflects an organization focused on momentum, accountability, and long-term success. Through advocacy, training, member support, and disciplined governance, the South Carolina Fraternal Order of Police continued to strengthen its role as the leading voice for law enforcement in the state.

As SCFOP looks ahead to the next legislative session, expanded training opportunities, and continued organizational development, the foundation built in 2025 provides confidence and clarity. With engaged leaders, informed members, and a shared commitment to service, the organization is well-positioned to continue advancing the interests of those who protect South Carolina’s communities.