Police Department
Message from Simpsonville Chief of Police
Welcome to the official website of the Simpsonville Police Department. I would like to thank you for your interest in visiting our website. I hope that you find it informative and easy to navigate. Please feel free to contact our staff if you need additional information beyond what is provided on this site.
The Simpsonville Police Department takes great pride in our efforts to build partnerships with the members of our community so that together we can work to make the City of Simpsonville a great place to live and visit. Our department’s motto is “Making a Difference”. This embodies the philosophy of the men and women serving this community in their efforts to enhance the quality of life for the citizens of Simpsonville.
Our officers strive for excellence and professionalism in all that they do so that we can build trusting and long-lasting relationships with our community. We understand the importance of these partnerships and how working together helps to reduce crime and keep our city and its citizens safe. Please enjoy your visit to our website and we look forward to serving you in the best way that we can.
Chief Michael D. Hanshaw
Leadership in Action
Effective leaders establish a strong rapport with their officers, community, administrators and elected officials based on a foundation of trust and caring and maintain this relationship through open communication, ethical behavior and doing the right thing. The Simpsonville Police Department has a strong Foundation of Leadership and Experience.
Serving Simpsonville with fairness, respect, and professionalism
For over 115 years, the Simpsonville Police Department has proudly served the city’s residents, visitors, and businesses. Built on a foundation of trust and safety, our officers are committed to treating all 25,000 community members with fairness and respect. Under the leadership of Chief Michael D. Hanshaw, the department consists of more than 40 sworn officers, civilian support staff, and four chaplains, all dedicated to upholding the highest standards of public safety.
Police Department Patch Symbolism
The Simpsonville Police Department patch, first created in 2012 and updated in 2018, incorporates local landmarks and state symbols chosen by our officers. It features the historic Burdette Hardware building, which housed the city’s first emergency phone lines, and the iconic clock tower with hands set to 09:11 as a tribute to 9/11 victims. The patch also includes the American flag with a blue line, symbolizing law enforcement solidarity, and the South Carolina crescent moon and palmetto tree. The 2018 update replaced the gold trim with blue, representing officers standing on the thin blue line.
Investigations Division Patch
This patch, created by the Investigation Division, symbolizes the key duties of investigators. The crime scene tape represents a common tool, while the magnifying glass and fingerprint highlight attention to detail. The Grim Reaper symbolizes the evil inflicted by criminals, serving as a reminder of the importance of bringing justice and closure to victims.
Narcotics and Vice Patch
This patch, created by the Vice & Narcotics Unit, features symbols like drugs and dice to represent their investigations. The skull and bullet hole serve as reminders of the harm and fatal consequences of narcotics, symbolizing the fight against the devastation drugs cause to victims, their families, and the community.
Alpha Shift Patch
The Alpha shift patch reflects the blue-collar work ethic and values of the team. The blue "A" represents law enforcement, and the phrase "Duty, Honor, Justice" embodies their ideals. Duty refers to the moral and legal responsibility to protect the community, honor reflects the commitment to values like respect and integrity, and justice symbolizes fair and equitable treatment for all.
Charlie Shift Patch
The wolf symbolizes leadership, protection, and strength, while representing the close-knit "pack" of Charlie Shift. "Semper Volentes" means "always willing," reflecting our commitment to leading and serving the community. The thin blue line honors fallen officers and signifies the police as protectors. The yellow trim represents courage, optimism, and the belief in high standards of behavior and honesty.
Delta Shift Patch
The patch, shaped like South Carolina, signifies our certification as Class 1 Law Enforcement Officers. "Through the Smoke Delta Rises" honors our fallen comrades and reflects our resilience in the face of adversity. The phoenix symbolizes Delta Shift's strength and ability to overcome challenges, while the 1* logo reminds us to be cautious and adds a touch of humor to help manage daily stress.
School Resource Officer Patch
The School Resource Officer (SRO) patch symbolizes the strong partnership between the Simpsonville Police Department and three local schools: Hillcrest High (Rams), Hillcrest Middle (Wildcats), and Bryson Middle (Bulldogs). Each school is represented by its mascot, with "Protecting Simpsonville's Future" as the SRO program’s motto. By ensuring a safe learning environment, the SROs help protect and guide the future leaders of Simpsonville.
Real-time alerts and updates at your fingertips
Download the Simpsonville Police Department app for instant access to important updates, alerts, and information from your local law enforcement. With push notifications for real-time updates, the app keeps you informed and connected with the SPD. Available now on the App Store and Google Play, it’s the easiest way to stay in touch with the Simpsonville PD!