Welcome to the Bureau of Protective Services (BPS). This DPS Division was established in 1994 under former Governor Carroll A. Campbell Jr., the 112th Governor of South Carolina.  BPS was formerly known as the South Carolina Capitol Police and operated under the State Law Enforcement Division (SLED). We are one of four accredited law enforcement divisions under the South Carolina Department of Public Safety.

BPS is comprised of the State House Division, State Agency Support Division, Governor’s Mansion Division and the Judicial Division.  The division also has K-9 Explosive Detection Teams and a Bike Patrol Unit to enhance safety and security on state grounds.

BPS provides comprehensive protective services for state employees and over 220,000 annual visitors to the State Capitol Complex. The State Capitol Complex includes the State Capitol Building (which houses the State Legislature, Governor and Lieutenant Governor’s Office), the L. Marion Gressette Building, Solomon Blatt Building, Wade Hampton Building, South Carolina Supreme Court, Calhoun Building, Brown Building and the Rembert C. Dennis Building.

BPS also provides protective services for several state agencies including the Public Employee Benefit Authority, Educational Lottery Commission, and the Division of State Information Technology. BPS plans and organizes law enforcement efforts during special events at the State House, Governor’s Mansion and other state facilities.  

As you work and visit the State Capitol Complex buildings and other state facilities, please know that our number one priority is to provide a safe and secure environment.

Chief Matthew Calhoun