A senate RESOLUTION

 

TO EXPRESS PROFOUND SORROW UPON THE PASSING OF Master Police Officer Christopher "Chris" Santos Carrizales AND TO EXTEND THE DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO HIS FAMILY AND MANY FRIENDS.

 

Whereas, the members of the South Carolina Senate were deeply saddened to learn of the death of Master Police Officer Christopher "Chris" Santos Carrizales on February 19, 2025; and

 

Whereas, a native of Gary, Indiana, Officer Carrizales was born on January 31, 1968, and was raised in Chicago, Illinois. He was a graduate of Central High School in East Chicago and a student of criminal justice at Central Texas College. He pursued his passion for law enforcement with diligence; and

 

Whereas, a veteran of the United States Army, Officer Carrizales served from 1988 to 1992 as a specialist in Dental Radiology. Displaying unwavering dedication to his nation, he was deployed to the Persian Gulf during Operation Desert Storm and served for sixteen years in Germany. He was distinguishably awarded the Army Service Ribbon, the Overseas Service Ribbon, the Army Commendation Medal, the Army Good Conduct Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Southwest Asia Service Medal, and the Bronze Service Star; and

 

Whereas, Officer Carrizales began his career in law enforcement with the City of Columbia police department on December 6, 2004, taking the Oath of Office on April 18, 2005. He served in various capacities-North Region Patrol, Master Police Officer, Community Services, Drug Suppression team, Special Operations Bureau, and Office of Professional Standards-always answering the call of duty with integrity and commitment; and

 

Whereas, though he briefly stepped away for a federal position, Officer Carrizales soon realized that his heart would always remain in policing. He returned to the Columbia Police Department in 2010 to continue his mission of protecting and serving; and

 

Whereas, most recently known for his role in protecting Columbia's leadership, Officer Carrizales was entrusted with the security detail for two Columbia mayors, current Mayor Daniel J. Rickenmann and former Mayor Stephen K. Benjamin. He ensured their safety with the same steadfast devotion he brought to every assignment; and

 

Whereas, over the years, Officer Carrizales received a number of honors and awards, including the Columbia Police Department Officer of the Year Award and the Community Achievement Award; and

 

Whereas, Officer Carrizales leaves to cherish his memory his parents, Javier and Celia Carrizales; his wife of thirty-four years, Gayle Carrizales; and their two children, Blake and Lauren. He will be greatly missed.  Now, therefore,

 

Be it resolved by the Senate:

 

That the members of the South Carolina Senate, by this resolution, express profound sorrow upon the passing of Master Police Officer Christopher "Chris" Santos Carrizales and extend the deepest sympathy to his family and many friends.

 

Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be presented to the family of Master Police Officer Christopher "Chris" Santos Carrizales.

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