Info Alert

We are excited to introduce our new website! We hope you find it easier to navigate, engaging and useful. As with any conversion of a site this large, errors may occur. If you see something that needs updating, please email PublicInformation@djj.sc.gov.

NOTE: If you had a page on our old site bookmarked, please be sure to update accordingly, as most pages have changed.  

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Michael J. Caughman

Michael J. Caughman

Public Safety Director

As the Chief of Police, his vision centers on innovative policing strategies, enhanced recruitment, and strengthening stakeholder trust—ensuring SCDJJ remains a safe and rehabilitative environment for the young people of South Carolina. Chief Caughman is a recognized leader in public safety with an intense passion for young people and their success. 

Safety and Law Enforcement Services

SCDJJ’s Department of Public Safety is a fully operational police agency with statewide jurisdiction. This division plays a critical role in ensuring the safety and security of SCDJJ facilities, staff, and youth. It includes certified law enforcement officers, correctional security response officers, and operates a 24/7 telecommunications and dispatch center. 

The Patrol Section provides visible, campus-style community policing and responds to calls for service, enforces laws, and protects life and property. The Investigations Section includes both a Criminal Investigations Unit—tasked with handling all criminal matters within SCDJJ—and an Internal Integrity Unit that investigates alleged staff misconduct using advanced surveillance and investigative technologies. The Communications Center serves as the agency’s dispatch hub, ensuring timely, accurate support to officers and facility staff at all times. Together, these units uphold SCDJJ’s mission to provide a secure environment that supports youth rehabilitation while maintaining public safety across South Carolina.