Bureau of Protective Services Officers Recognized at 2025 BPS Awards Ceremony

Media: Photos from the ceremony will be posted to the SC Department of Public Safety's online photo album and SCDPS Facebook page. Please continue to check for updates.

COLUMBIA - The South Carolina Bureau of Protective Services (BPS), a division of the South Carolina Department of Public Safety, held an awards ceremony on Monday, June 8, 2026, during which the division recognized its Officer of the Year, Rookie of the Year, Supervisor of the Year, and presented their Chief's Award for 2025.

During the ceremony at the State House, BPS named Lance Corporal Matthew Barker the 2025 BPS Officer of the Year for his contributions to the Bureau of Protective Services and public safety. He assumed command of the Critical Incident Team (CIT) in 2025, restructuring the team's training schedules and providing steady operational leadership for the team. He manages the division's specialized tactical equipment and leads advanced training initiatives, routinely working overtime on his days off to ensure the team remains fully prepared, resulting in enhanced safety for the public and his fellow officers during events.

"It is truly a privilege to be a part of this ceremony, where we recognize the exemplary work of our Bureau of Protective Services officers," SCDPS Director Robert G. Woods IV said. "Their dedication and service exemplify the division's mission to ensure the safety and security of hundreds of thousands of people who work and visit the State Capitol Complex each year. And it my great pleasure to honor such deserving men and women during this annual event."

Chief Dwayne Brunson, commander of the Bureau of Protective Services, named the award winners and recognized the nominees for their exceptional work in 2025 during Monday evening's ceremony.

"This ceremony is our one time of year where we come together to celebrate the excellence within our ranks. Two years ago we added the Supervisor of the Year, Rookie of the Year and Chief's Award. These additional recognitions allow us to honor the exceptional work of our officers across a wide range of roles and experience levels. Each officer here today exemplifies the dedication and professionalism that define the Bureau of Protective Services. It's easy to celebrate these leaders who stand out through hard work and service."

The Bureau of Protective Services is responsible for ensuring the safety and security of all state employees, visitors, and dignitaries who come to the State House and other facilities each year. In addition, BPS officers are responsible for the security of the Governor's mansion.

2025 Bureau of Protective Services Officer of the Year

The following is a list of finalists for the 2025 BPS Officer of the Year:

• Overall Winner: Lance Corporal Matthew Barker, State House Division
• Finalist: Master Officer Ivan Birochak, State House Division
• Finalist: Senior Officer Erica M. Brooks, Governor's Mansion Division
• Finalist: Class III Officer Guillermo A. Santiago, State House Division

Rookie of the Year Award: This award is given to a BPS officer who has less than three years of Certified Law Enforcement Service Time, has performed well above expectations, actively participates in outreach programs, works well with colleagues, takes initiative, and exhibits leadership qualities despite being a new officer.

• Winner: Officer First Class Timothy Scott Bolser, Governor's Mansion Division

Supervisor of the Year Award: This award is given to a BPS supervisor who demonstrated strong leadership skills, leads by example, actively mentors and develops officers, and has received positive feedback from officers, command staff, or community members.

The following is a list of nominees for the 2025 BPS Supervisor of the Year:

• Overall Winner: Sergeant Justin T. Blevins, Governor's Mansion Division
• Finalist: Corporal Marlena Johnson, State House Division

Chief's Award: The annual Chief's Award recognizes an individual for outstanding leadership, service, and professionalism. This award is given to an individual who has not only demonstrated exceptional commitment and dedication to their work but also to their colleagues and the BPS mission.

• Winner: Class III Officer Guillermo A. Santiago, State House Division

The South Carolina Department of Public Safety includes the Highway Patrol, State Transport Police, Bureau of Protective Services, Office of Highway Safety and Justice Programs, and the South Carolina Law Enforcement Officers Hall of Fame. Our mission is to ensure public safety by protecting and serving the people of South Carolina and its visitors.