Camden, South Carolina
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Police Department

“Working Together for a Safer Camden.”                           

For non-emergency calls, dial 803-425-6025.  For emergencies, dial 911.

Our mission is to enhance the quality of life in Camden by working in partnership with the community to prevent crime, enforce the law, and maintain order in a fair and impartial manner.

Under Chief Jack Rushing, our vision at the Camden Police Department is to create a safe, inclusive, and thriving community where every individual is valued, respected, and treated fairly. We strive to build trust and partnerships with our residents through proactive and transparent policing practices and to serve as positive role models and leaders in our city. Our ultimate goal is to enhance public safety and quality of life for all while fostering a culture of accountability, professionalism, and integrity within our department.

OUR CORE VALUES

  1. Integrity: We hold ourselves to the highest ethical standards and act with honesty, transparency, and fairness in all our dealings.
  2. Respect: We treat all members of the community with dignity, regardless of their background or circumstances.
  3. Professionalism: We conduct ourselves with discipline, dedication, and a commitment to excellence in everything we do.
  4. Service: We are dedicated to serving the people of Camden and working together with them to promote safety and security.
  5. Community engagement: We are actively engaged in the communities we serve and work to build positive relationships with residents, businesses, and other stakeholders.
  6. Innovation: We embrace new ideas, technologies, and approaches to policing and are constantly striving to improve our effectiveness and efficiency.
  7. Collaboration: We believe in working together with all partners in the criminal justice system and in the community to achieve our shared goals.
  8. Fairness: We are committed to ensuring that all people are treated fairly and equitably under the law, without discrimination or bias.

These core values provide a foundation for the Camden Police Department and serve as a guide for the ethical and professional conduct of its members.

POLICING WITH PURPOSE: A GUIDE FOR OUR DEPARTMENT PRINCIPLES

  1. Transparency and accountability: The Camden Police Department will operate with transparency and be held accountable for its actions. This includes clear policies and procedures, regular reporting and audits, and effective communication with the public.
  2. Community-oriented policing: The Camden Police Department’s Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) is to build and maintain positive relationships between the police and the community by actively engaging in open communication and collaboration and supporting community events. Our goal is to provide fair and equitable policing services that enhance the quality of life for all members of the community. Through proactive problem-solving, community partnerships, and participating in community events, we strive to create a safe and secure environment for everyone. We are committed to fostering trust, transparency, and accountability as we work together to reduce crime and improve the overall well-being of Camden.
  3. Professionalism and integrity: The Camden Police Department will maintain high standards of professionalism and integrity in all its actions and decisions. This includes fair and impartial enforcement of the law, ethical behavior, and maintaining public trust.
  4. Continuous training and development: The Camden Police Department will provide ongoing training and development opportunities for its officers to enhance their skills and abilities. This includes regular in-service training, specialized training in areas such as de-escalation and crisis intervention, and opportunities for officers to pursue advanced education and certifications.
  5. Effective leadership and management: The Camden Police Department will have effective leadership and management practices in place. This includes clear lines of authority, consistent decision-making processes, and a focus on achieving strategic goals.
  6. Evidence-based practices: The Camden Police Department will make decisions and implement policies based on the best available evidence and research. This includes incorporating data and technology to inform decision-making, regularly reviewing, and evaluating the effectiveness of policies and practices, and being open to change and innovation.
  7. Diversity and inclusiveness: The Camden Police Department will strive to be diverse and inclusive in its hiring and promotion practices, and in its interactions with the community. This includes valuing diversity, promoting equal opportunities, and ensuring that all members of the community are treated with dignity and respect.
  8. Emphasis on well-being: The Camden Police Department will place a strong emphasis on the well-being of its officers, including physical and mental health. This includes providing resources and support for stress management, addressing workplace culture, and promoting healthy habits and behaviors.
  9. Collaboration and partnerships: The Camden Police Department will collaborate with other law enforcement agencies, government agencies, and community organizations to achieve common goals and enhance public safety. This includes regularly communicating and coordinating with partners and seeking opportunities for collaboration and joint efforts.
  10. Use of technology: The Camden Police Department will adopt and use technology in an effective and efficient manner to enhance its operations and improve public safety. This includes incorporating technology into training and development programs, using data and analytics to inform decision-making, and exploring new and innovative technologies to improve operations and services.

BENEFITS OF PROTECTING YOUR HOME AND BUSINESS WITH AN ALARM SYSTEM

It is recommended that homeowners and business owners have a suitable alarm system for several reasons. First, an alarm system provides a deterrent against intruders and burglars, making it less likely for them to attempt a break-in. 

Secondly, a well-installed and maintained alarm system can quickly alert the authorities in case of an emergency, providing a fast response to potential threats. Additionally, having an alarm system can also offer peace of mind, knowing that one’s property and belongings are protected. Furthermore, a good alarm system can also provide valuable security features, such as monitoring temperature and smoke levels to detect potential fires, as well as detecting gas leaks and flooding. 

Finally, having a suitable alarm system can also be seen as a benefit by insurance providers, potentially reducing the cost of insurance premiums. The advantages of having a suitable alarm system far outweigh the cost of installation and maintenance, making it a wise investment for any homeowner or business owner. 

Note: The Camden Police Department does not endorse any particular alarm companies. Home and business owners are advised to perform due diligence and evaluate potential alarm companies through reputable organizations such as the Better Business Bureau and the SC Contractor’s Licensing Board.