Sumter County Sheriff’s Office offering church security seminars

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WOLO) — The Sumter County Sheriff‘s Office announced today it is offering seminars to all Sumter County religious organizations to aid them in developing security protocols, including guidelines on how to respond to a violent incident. Studies have shown that, despite an increase in attacks on religious locations during the past few years, an estimated two-thirds of all religious locations in the United States have not developed security protocols. “It‘s uncomfortable to have to think about the possibility of dealing with yet another violent situation at a church, especially the thought of one happening close to home. Still, it‘s important we make sure we‘re prepared, no matter how unpleasant it might be to think about or how remote we think the chances are,” said Sumter County Sheriff Anthony Dennis. “Helping church officials recognize potential threats and stressing the importance of everyone in the congregation knowing the church‘s protocols ahead of time can help minimize, and possibly eliminate, tragedy should such an unfortunate event occur.” As part of the developed presentation, agency officials will educate church officials not only on the importance of developing security plans and protocols, but also how to respond both during and after a violent attack. These seminars will be conducted free of charge by officials with the law enforcement agency for churches and religious organizations throughout Sumter County, as well as local non-profit organizations. For more information about the church security seminar, or to request a representative from the Sumter County Sheriff‘s Office conduct one of these seminars, contact the Sumter County Sheriff‘s Office at (803) 436-2000.