Memorial

We honor the men who have served the Orangeburg County Sheriff’s Office and paid the ultimate price to provide law enforcement services to the citizens of this county. Annually in May during Police Officers Memorial week, we pay tribute to the line of duty deaths as well as the men who have passed away while employees of the Orangeburg County Sheriff’s Office. Well served, police officers. May you rest in peace. We will never forget your sacrifice.

There have been four officers who have lost their lives while on tour at the Orangeburg County Sheriff’s Office.

  1. William Howell, Jr. - May 3, 2008
  2. Tommy Prezzy - April 12, 1999
  3. Roy Myers - June 6, 1965
  4. Gary E. Fairey - January 20, 1944

William Howell Jr.Corporal William Howell, Jr.

  • Age: 46
  • End of Watch: May 3, 2008
  • Tour of Duty: 16 years

Death

Corporal William Howell was shot and killed while responding to a domestic disturbance. Corporal Howell was approaching the home to assist the female victim remove belongings when the male subject opened fire with a shotgun, striking him in the neck. The suspect, who was out of jail on bond on a charge of assault and battery with intent to kill, was then run over and killed by his wife as he attempted to leave the home.

Career with Orangeburg County

Corporal Howell had served with the Orangeburg County Sheriff’s Office for three years and had served in law enforcement for a total of 16 years, having served as a jailer at the Berkeley County Detention Center from 1993 to 2000, with the Moncks Corner Police Department, the South Carolina Department of Corrections, the Dorchester County Sheriff’s Office and as an officer with the Jamestown Police before taking a position with the Orangeburg County Sheriff’s Office.

Legacy

Corporal Howell is survived by his wife and four sons.

William Howell, Jr.’s name has been engraved at the National Law Enforcement Memorial in Washington, DC. His name can be located on panel 20, E-26.