VOTE Patrick Breeden, running for sumter county sheriff.

Patrick Breeden, Sumter County Undersheriff, was born and raised in Sumter County. He graduated from South Sumter High School and went to work for the Sheriff’s Office. Since then, he’s completed an associate’s degree in police technology, a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice administration and gained valuable experience working his way up through the ranks.

“I’ve dedicated my entire adult life, from the age of 19, to serving the citizens of Sumter County.”

Career Highlights

In his 34-year career in law enforcement, Patrick has held many positions in the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office:

• Corrections Deputy

• Corrections Sergeant

• Patrol Deputy

• K-9 Handler

• Criminal investigations Detective

• Special Investigations Detective

• Patrol Sergeant

• Criminal Investigations Lieutenant

• Special Operations Lieutenant

• S.W.A.T Commander

“Sumter County is always in the top 10 safest counties. If I’m elected Sheriff, I will be sure that continues by hiring quality deputies, continuing training and building relationships within the community.”

Extended Service

To serve Sumter County residents outside of the traditional law enforcement role, Patrick created the crisis intervention team. These civilian mental health professionals are specially trained to work emergencies when mental health might play a role. They work alongside victims’ advocates, and under the protection of deputies at the scene, to de-escalate the situation and provide the social and emotional supports needed.

Patrick also re-vamped the Sumter Safe Program to assist individuals with mental health challenges who are prone to wandering and their families. The program offers free tracking devices and assistance tracking individuals if they wander away from home.

“Continuing community relations is my number one priority, maintaining transparency and availability to the public through an open-door policy.”