A recent rise in serious accidents involving South Carolina Highway Patrol troopers has triggered a new safety campaign called “Operation Keep Us Safe.” Launched in Charleston County, this initiative aims to protect law enforcement officers, especially during routine traffic stops—situations that have become increasingly dangerous.
Troopers Injured While Serving the Public
In just the past month, three state troopers have been struck by vehicles while conducting traffic stops:
Trooper First Class Dennis Ricks was hit on August 10 on I-26 near Orangeburg. Sadly, he passed away four days later.
Senior Trooper Mitchell Williams Jr. was struck on September 7 in Richland County and is now recovering from his injuries.
Just two days later, Master Trooper Wayne LaBounty was hit during a stop in Lexington County. He remains in the hospital.
These incidents have shaken the South Carolina law enforcement community and raised urgent questions about public awareness and responsibility on the road.
Why Operation Keep Us Safe Matters
At a press conference announcing the new campaign, Highway Patrol officials expressed deep frustration.
“What we didn’t sign up for is a blatant disregard for our safety that seems to be running rampant,” a spokesperson said.
Officers say the real issue is not just distracted driving, but a growing lack of caution and respect for those who work on the roadside. The new campaign hopes to educate the public and push for stricter adherence to South Carolina’s Move Over Law, which requires drivers to slow down and shift lanes when approaching emergency vehicles.
A Survivor’s Powerful Message
Former Charleston County Sheriff’s deputy Mike Costanzo knows this danger all too well. He shared his life-changing story of being hit by a speeding truck while working a roadside incident.
“I saw a Ford F-350 coming fast. I tried to move, but I didn’t make it,” he recalled. “Next thing I knew, I was in the hospital.”
Mike suffered a traumatic brain injury and multiple broken bones. He now lives with chronic pain. “I still hurt 25/7,” he said. “I know there’s only 24 hours in a day, but somehow, it feels like more.”
Despite everything he’s endured, Costanzo holds no bitterness toward the driver. “He changed my life, but I’m not mad. We all have our judgment day.”
He does, however, feel deep sorrow for the family of Will Ellis, a tow truck driver who died in the same crash. “They lost a father, and likely a future grandfather. Their pain is far greater than mine,” he said.
Turning Pain Into Purpose
Unable to return to active duty, Costanzo now works in a support role at the Charleston County Sheriff’s Office. He mentors young officers and volunteers in his community.
“I enjoy helping people. It’s how I heal, too,” he shared. “We all have families. So to the public, I say this—slow down. Give us space. Respect the people on the side of the road trying to help others.”
Costanzo’s journey of resilience is featured in the book “Adversity Doesn’t Build Character, It Reveals It” by Becky Mayberry, available on Amazon.
The stories of Trooper Ricks, Trooper Williams, Trooper LaBounty, and Deputy Costanzo serve as powerful reminders: every time we get behind the wheel, we hold the safety of others in our hands. Operation Keep Us Safe is not just a campaign—it’s a plea from those who risk their lives daily. Slowing down, moving over, and paying attention can save lives. Let’s not wait for another tragedy to take these simple steps seriously.
