Bluffton Police Department

The Bluffton Police Department traces its roots to 1903, when a single officer served the Town’s original one-square-mile footprint, now known as the Bluffton’s Historic District. As Bluffton has grown, so has its police department.

Today, under the leadership of Chief Joseph Babkiewicz (hired in 2023), the Bluffton Police Department is a modern, full-service agency serving approximately 54 square miles. The department is comprised of about 60 sworn officers, nearly 20 civilian employees, and more than a handful of chaplains and volunteers dedicated to ensuring the safety and well-being of all who live, work, and visit Bluffton.

The department is dually accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies and the South Carolina Law Enforcement Accreditation Program, reflecting its commitment to professional excellence and national best practices. Through community-focused initiatives such as the Citizens Police Academy, Cookout with Cops, the Explorer Program, Blessings for Bluffton and the Holiday Toy Drive, the department remains committed to building strong community relationships while continually investing in technology, training, and victim advocacy. Chief Babkiewicz said his philosophy on community policing is simple: “The more we serve our community through outreach and programs, the less we have to focus on traditional enforcement. That happens when you build strong relationships and true partnerships with the people you serve.”

The department has also emerged as a statewide leader in addressing mental health, both within the community and among first responders. In recognition of its innovative approach to community mental health initiatives, the department recently received a 2022 statewide Achievement Award from the Municipal Association of South Carolina for being a leader in community mental health. Bluffton was the first law enforcement agency in the state to hire a full-time mental health professional to help serve the community. In addition, the department has implemented officer wellness and mental health support programs designed to provide resources for law enforcement professionals facing the unique challenges associated with public safety service.

Through a balanced commitment to public safety, community trust and employee wellness, the Bluffton Police Department continues to evolve alongside one of South Carolina’s fastest-growing communities.