Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office interns gain hands-on law enforcement, criminal justice, and emergency management experience. Meet the 2026 interns and discover how this program builds future public safety leaders.
Launch of the Spring 2026 Internship
The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office Internship Program has emerged as a vital initiative for students pursuing careers in law enforcement, criminal justice, and public service.
By offering immersive, hands‑on experiences, the program bridges the gap between academic study and real‑world application. In 2026, both the spring and summer sessions highlighted the program’s success, showcasing interns who brought enthusiasm, dedication, and diverse academic backgrounds to the agency.
The Spring 2026 session marked a historic milestone as the Sheriff’s Office introduced its first Criminal Justice Internship Program.
This initiative was developed in partnership with the Technical College of the Lowcountry under the leadership of Dr. Samuel Akers.
Two students, Alondra Lopez-Romero and Kaylie Zaiser, became the inaugural interns. Their participation set the tone for future cohorts, demonstrating how academic knowledge can be enhanced through practical exposure.
They shadowed deputies, observed investigations, and engaged with administrative staff, gaining a comprehensive view of law enforcement operations. Their success proved the program’s potential as a pipeline for future professionals in public safety.
The Summer 2026 session broadened the program’s scope by welcoming two new interns Kenzie Jacoby, a Criminal Justice student at the University of South Carolina, and JT Lady, a Finance student at Clemson University.
Over twelve weeks, Kenzie and JT immersed themselves in the Sheriff’s Office’s daily operations. They participated in ride-alongs during both day and night shifts, gaining firsthand insight into the unpredictable nature of law enforcement.
They also shadowed specialized units, learning about investigative techniques, patrol procedures, and community engagement strategies.
Their experience extended beyond policing, as they joined the Emergency Management Division to prepare for South Carolina’s hurricane season. This involvement included discussions with Governor Henry McMaster, offering them a rare opportunity to witness statewide disaster readiness planning.
Kenzie’s Criminal Justice background aligned closely with the program’s law enforcement focus. Her experiences reinforced classroom learning with real‑world application, from responding to calls to understanding investigative complexities.
JT’s Finance background highlighted the importance of administrative and resource management within law enforcement agencies. His exposure demonstrated that careers in public safety extend beyond patrol work, encompassing finance, budgeting, and operational sustainability.
Together, Kenzie and JT illustrated the program’s mission: to provide diverse experiences that prepare students for multiple career paths.
Community Engagement and Mentorship
The internship program is not only about professional development it is also a community initiative. By partnering with universities and colleges, the Sheriff’s Office strengthens ties with educational institutions while offering students mentorship and networking opportunities.
Interns benefit from guidance provided by experienced deputies and administrators, while the agency gains fresh perspectives and potential recruits.
This reciprocal relationship enhances the Sheriff’s Office’s ability to serve the community and fosters the next generation of public safety leaders.
The program’s impact extends beyond individual participants. It reflects the Sheriff’s Office’s commitment to education, workforce development, and community engagement.
By investing in students, the agency demonstrates its dedication to building a stronger public safety infrastructure. Interns leave with practical skills, professional confidence, and a sense of responsibility qualities essential for careers in law enforcement.
The program also serves as a model for other agencies, showing how partnerships with educational institutions can create sustainable pathways for students to transition into professional roles.
Interns like Alondra, Kaylie, Kenzie, and JT have set a high standard for future participants. Their enthusiasm, professionalism, and willingness to learn highlight the importance of internships in shaping career trajectories.
Whether pursuing law enforcement, finance, or emergency management, these students gained experiences that will guide their future careers.
The Sheriff’s Office plans to expand the program further, offering more students opportunities to explore diverse roles within public safety.
The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office Internship Program represents a forward‑thinking approach to workforce development in law enforcement.
By combining academic partnerships with hands‑on training, the program equips students with the skills, knowledge, and confidence needed to pursue careers in public safety.
The experiences of the 2026 interns illustrate the program’s effectiveness in providing meaningful exposure to the diverse responsibilities of a sheriff’s office.
From ride‑alongs to emergency management discussions with the governor, interns gained insights that will shape their futures and inspire others to follow in their footsteps.
As the program continues to evolve, it will remain a vital resource for students and a testament to the Sheriff’s Office’s commitment to excellence in public service.