South Carolina Fraternal Order of Police

Oconee County Sheriff's Office

SC Fallen Officers – February 7

by

Today, we remember Chester Police Department, Chester, SC Captain James K. Marshall, Lexington County Constable James Earle Price, Dorchester County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Sheriff Gary Douglas Blackwood, and Oconee County Sheriff’s Office – SC Deputy Sheriff William Frederick Schuck, III.

On this date in 1898, Captain James Marshall was shot and killed while investigating a subject attempting to pass a bad check at a local bank.

On this date in 1925, Constable James Price was shot and killed after stopping a vehicle he suspected of transporting illegal whiskey.

On this date in 1988, Deputy Gary Blackwood was electrocuted when he attempted to move a downed power line from the roadway at the scene of an accident caused by a drunk driver.

On this date in 2010, Deputy Sheriff Bill Schuck was killed when he became pinned between a tree and his patrol car on a dirt road off of Highway 11 North.

Encouraging Update on Corporal Lucas Watts

by

In November 2023, the law enforcement community was shaken when Corporal Lucas Watts was shot in the line of duty during a routine traffic stop in Oconee County. The incident left him fighting for his life, but today, his journey toward recovery is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the unwavering support of his loved ones.

After enduring a harrowing ordeal, Corporal Watts underwent successful Achilles surgery and has been steadily progressing in his rehabilitation. Recent updates from his family paint a picture of resilience and hope as he continues to defy the odds.

Despite the challenges he faces, Corporal Watts has shown remarkable progress. He is now able to eat on his own, a significant milestone in his recovery journey. Furthermore, doctors are preparing for a prosthetic eye procedure, marking another step forward in his physical rehabilitation.

On April 16, 2024, Corporal Watts achieved a significant milestone as he graduated from the Shepherd Center in Atlanta, Georgia. Surrounded by his family, including his wife, son, and mother-in-law, he has transitioned into a new phase of his recovery, moving into an apartment and beginning outpatient therapy at Shepherd Pathways.

The road to recovery has not been without its challenges, but through it all, Corporal Watts remains determined and resilient. With the unwavering support of his loved ones and the prayers of a community rallying behind him, he continues to make strides toward regaining his independence and returning home to South Carolina.

As his family navigates the complexities of his ongoing rehabilitation, they remain grateful for the outpouring of support they have received. They express their heartfelt gratitude to all who have stood by them during this challenging time and ask for continued prayers as they journey toward healing and restoration.

Corporal Watts’ story serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by law enforcement officers every day and the resilience that lies within each of them. As he continues to defy the odds and inspire those around him, his journey is a beacon of hope for us all. We stand with Corporal Lucas Watts and his family, united in our unwavering support and belief in his strength and determination.