It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Trooper First Class Dennis D. Ricks, who died Wednesday night, nearly four days after being struck by a vehicle while conducting a traffic stop in Orangeburg County. TFC Ricks had served with the South Carolina Highway Patrol since January 2023 and was assigned to Troop 7, Post B, which covers Calhoun and Orangeburg Counties.
“Trooper First Class Ricks has a passion for serving his community well every single day. Alongside his wife and family, his brothers and sisters in uniform are praying hard for his recovery,” said SCHP Colonel Christopher Williamson.
His wife Jade shares, “He is truly the love of my life. Dennis is my safe place, my strength. He is the kindest, sweetest and most gentle soul. To say he is a phenomenal man and husband is quite an understatement. Please pray for Dennis.”
This fundraiser is coordinated by Serve & Connect, a South Carolina-based nonprofit focused on fostering positive change through sustainable police and community partnerships. Serve & Connect was founded in memory of Officer Greg Alia with the Forest Acres Police Department who was shot and killed in the line of duty on September 30, 2015.
This fundraiser is coordinated in partnership with the South Carolina Department of Public Safety, the South Carolina Highway Patrol, the South Carolina Troopers Association, South Carolina Law Enforcement Officers Association, the South Carolina Police Chiefs Association, the South Carolina Sheriffs’ Association, and the South Carolina Fraternal Order of Police.
100% of the funds raised will be donated directly to the family of TFC Ricks.