DARLINGTON — At the Darlington Police Department’s annual brat feed and baseball game on Thursday, Aug. 1, 2024, the Optimist Club of Darlington presented Jason King with their annual Respect For Law Award.  

It was a great opportunity to recognize former Darlington Chief of Police, Jason King, and his 30 years of service to the police department and now as a security officer at SSM Health in Monroe. King was credited for implementing and running the D.A.R.E. program with fifth graders at Darlington Middle School for 20 years.  He created a bond between the police department and the school that has been very beneficial. King also served as an EMT in the community and is active in the Sons of the American Legion. He has been a great mentor and example in all that he does.

In 1994, the Optimist Club of Darlington joined Optimist International in recognizing a Respect For Law award. Annually, the club’s board of directors take into consideration those in the community who have made a significant contribution in keeping its citizens safe, promoting good relations between law enforcement and the community and being model citizens.