Pictured are Optimist Club President David Kafitz and Major Tapler, who received a copy of the Optimist Creed.
By Rick Abercrombie
Major Steven Tapler, representing Richland County Sheriff’s Department, spoke October 9 to the Optimist Club of St. Andrews-Irmo.
Until his September promotion to the rank of Major, then-Captain Tapler commanded RCSD’s Region 4, which encompasses Broad River Road, Irmo, and Chapin. In June, Tapler was awarded The Order of the Okra by the Irmo Chamber. He was recognized for his efforts to familiarize RCSD in the community as a friend to its citizens.
Rising through the ranks, Tapler has spent sixteen of his twenty years with the Department in the Irmo-Chapin area. His new assignment is managing the efforts of more than 500 Deputies.
Tapler spent time during his presentation on the topic of gang activity. He described gangs in this area as “prolific,” with an asterisk. To explain, he conceded that the more high-profile gangs — those with a national footprint — are a presence locally; however, he also said that a much more common version can be as simple as three or more youths breaking into cars overnight and calling themselves a gang. Regardless, RCSD is well aware and focused on responding to gang activity.
A notable statistic Tapler shared was that in the past four years there have been 97 homicides in Richland County, all of which have been solved. He added that the total cost of training and equipping a new Deputy is $137,000.
Appearing on two TV crime shows has given Tapler and ECSD national visibility. His first role was as a regular on “Live PD,” later moving to “On Patrol Live,” where Richland County was among the areas featured.
