York County Sheriff’s Office Honors Excellence at 2025 Awards Banquet

YORK COUNTY, SC – In a celebration of courage, commitment, and public service, the York County Sheriff’s Office (YCSO) recognized its top personnel at the 5th annual YCSO Awards Banquet, hosted by the Sheriff’s Foundation of York County. The event took place on March 27, 2025, at Southern Charm Events in Rock Hill, drawing community leaders, officers, and supporters for an evening of recognition and gratitude.

Sheriff Tony Breeden led the ceremony, proudly announcing the agency’s top honors for 2024. Sgt. Daniel Frame was named Deputy of the Year, and Detention Officer II Thelma Rochester received the title of Detention Officer of the Year.

Two civilian employees were also honored for their contributions: Belle McCleave, representing the Detention Division, and Rosemary Casey, representing the Enforcement Division, were each named Civilian Employee of the Year.

“These officers and employees should be highly commended for their dedication and service to the people of York County,” said Sheriff Breeden. “Their professionalism and commitment set the standard for law enforcement excellence.”

The ceremony went beyond individual awards, shining a light on extraordinary acts of bravery and lifesaving interventions throughout the year.

Medal of Valor

• Berlin Gibson

Life Saving Medals – Enforcement Division

• Anthony Burnett

• Charles Grant

• Johnathan Gunn

• Kyle Hopper

• Zachary Norris

• Joshua Parris

• Reid Whitesides

Life Saving Medals – Detention Division

• Paul Aube

• Jerry Burnette

• Heather Campbell

• Shaniqua Carter

• Sheila Davis

• Steven Dellinger

• Jessica Hall

• Michael Jinks

• Shane Kitchen

• Julia Radford

• Diamond Veeder

“These are the heroes and stories that often go unnoticed,” Sheriff Breeden said. “The Life Saving Medal represents the bravery and dedication of our personnel who saved thirteen lives last year.”

Distinguished Acts Award

• Jordan Little

• Johnathan Sowell

The awards banquet was made possible through the support of community sponsors, including Axon, McDaniel Supply Company, Mosley Architects, and Trinity Services Group, Inc.

The Sheriff’s Foundation of York County, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, hosted the event. The foundation works to strengthen public safety by fostering support for law enforcement initiatives, promoting professional development, and enhancing community partnerships.

As York County continues to grow, Sheriff Breeden emphasized that recognizing these acts of service is vital to maintaining public trust and encouraging excellence within the department. “These men and women embody what it means to protect and serve,” he said. “We’re proud of their efforts and honored to celebrate them.”