BEHIND THE BADGE: Sgt. Ariel Strong

The News & Press recently sat down with Sgt. Ariel Strong of the Darlington Police Force.

Her story is the first in a series highlighting the dedicated officers serving the Darlington community.

Sergeant Ariel Strong has emerged as a standout officer on the Darlington Police Force since joining their ranks in 2020. The 33-year-old mother of two brings an impressively diverse academic background to her role, having studied Chemistry, Psychology, and Biology at Francis Marion University – a combination that has proven invaluable in her approach to law enforcement.

Originally from Cassatt, South Carolina, Strong’s journey into law enforcement began in Chesterfield in 2017. After several successful years of service there, she found her true calling and accepted a position with the Darlington Police Department, where she has since made her mark through her unwavering commitment to positive community engagement and innovative policing approaches.

“What I value most is interacting with the public,” Strong says, emphasizing her focus on communication and de-escalation techniques. “Every interaction should end on a positive note, because these moments shape how our community views and trusts law enforcement.”

The 2010 Lugoff-Elgin High School graduate comes from a distinguished law enforcement family. Sgt. Strong is happily married and her husband works in Chesterfield. Together, they balance their demanding careers while raising their two sons, demonstrating that modern police officers can successfully maintain both professional excellence and strong family bonds.

While acknowledging the challenges of irregular hours and time away from family, Strong remains steadfastly dedicated to her mission of community service. “We appreciate all your support,” she says to the public. “We are here for you, regardless of the situation or time of day.” She actively encourages community members to engage with local law enforcement, adding, “Don’t be afraid to wave and say ‘Hello’. We’re here for the community and want to build lasting relationships with our residents.”

Looking ahead, Strong has ambitious plans to advance her career in Criminal Justice, possibly pursuing specialized opportunities with the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED). Her dedication to continuous professional growth serves as an inspiration to fellow officers.

Thank you, Sgt. Strong, for your wonderful service to the community.

We wish you continued success and happiness in the future!