Fountain Inn Police Department Becomes First Greenville County Agency to Receive SAFE Designation
May 18, 2026
The Fountain Inn Police Department was officially presented with the Sexual Assault Forensic Excellence (SAFE) Designation during the Fountain Inn City Council meeting on May 14, 2026, becoming the first law enforcement agency in Greenville County to earn the recognition.
The SAFE Designation was created through a partnership between the South Carolina Victim Assistance Network (SCVAN), the South Carolina Attorney General’s Office, South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED), and the South Carolina Hospital Association. The program recognizes agencies committed to providing trauma-informed, survivor-centered care for victims of sexual assault.
Representatives from SCVAN presented the award during the meeting, including Sabrina Gast, Statewide Forensic Nurse Director, and Amanda White, BSN, RN, SANE-A, who helped develop the SAFE program. During the presentation, officials highlighted the importance of ensuring victims receive compassionate, specialized care and support from the moment first responders arrive on scene.
While the SAFE program originally focused on hospitals and forensic nursing programs, the initiative later expanded to include law enforcement agencies, recognizing the critical role officers play in supporting victims during traumatic situations. The designation process includes extensive training in trauma-informed response, evidence preservation, trafficking awareness, strangulation response, and victim care.
Although the program set a benchmark goal of 75% agency participation in the required training, the Fountain Inn Police Department achieved 100% participation across the department.
“This recognition reflects the dedication our officers and staff have toward serving victims with compassion, professionalism, and care during some of the most difficult moments in their lives,” said Chief Patrick Fortenberry. “We are honored to receive this designation and proud to lead the way in Greenville County.”
Major Chad Richardson joined Chief Patrick Fortenberry during the formal presentation accepting the designation on behalf of the department.
The recognition further highlights the department’s continued commitment to community-focused policing, professional development, and providing the highest level of service to residents and visitors throughout Fountain Inn.
