South Carolina Launches ‘Operation Keep Us Safe’ After Three Troopers Struck in Past Month
COLUMBIA, S.C. — South Carolina law enforcement leaders have announced “Operation Keep Us Safe,” a statewide enforcement effort following a series of tragic incidents where three state troopers were struck by vehicles in the past month, including one who lost his life.
Deadly Month on South Carolina Roads
Authorities said Trooper First Class Dennis Ricks was killed after being hit during a traffic stop on I-26 in Orangeburg County on August 10. He died four days later.
On September 7, Senior Trooper Mitchell Williams Jr. was struck on I-77 in Richland County. Just two days later, Master Trooper Wayne LaBounty was hit on U.S. 1 in Lexington County. Williams is now recovering at home, while LaBounty remains hospitalized.
Colonel Christopher Williamson, commander of the Highway Patrol, called the string of crashes a result of “blatant disregard for our safety,” stressing that “enough is enough.”
Weeklong Crackdown
The campaign will focus on drivers who violate the state’s “move over” law or hands-free law, targeting motorists who fail to slow down or change lanes when approaching emergency vehicles.
Troopers will work alongside sheriffs’ deputies and municipal police officers across all 46 counties.
“Move over or pay the consequences,” Williamson said. “It’s really just that simple.”
Families and Officials Urge Change
At the announcement, families of fallen officers stood alongside law enforcement leaders. Jade Ricks, widow of Trooper Dennis Ricks, attended, as did Lois Rao, whose son Trooper Michael Rao was fatally struck in 2002 while helping a stranded family.
“Our lives changed forever at 8:10 on that Monday morning,” Rao said. “The move over law does save lives. Do not subject another mother to bury her son. Please move over.”
Richland County Sheriff Leon Lott added: “The emergency service vehicle on the side of the road with its lights on—slow down and move over.”
The initiative underscores how dangerous roadside duties remain for South Carolina troopers. Do you think stricter enforcement will make drivers take the move over law seriously? Share your perspective in the comments at SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
