The Columbia Police Department Explorer Post 786 has achieved remarkable recognition at the recent South Carolina Association of Law Enforcement Explorers Competition, which took place from June 27 to July 3 in Columbia, South Carolina. Under the guidance of CPD advisors Sergeant Cheryl Macpherson and Corporal Landen Barber, the team excelled, returning home with an impressive collection of eight trophies. Their accomplishments included first-place victories in categories such as Active Shooter Response, Civil Disturbance Investigation, and Overall Performance.
In addition to their top finishes, the Explorers also claimed second place in both the Arrest Search Warrant and Unknown Risk Traffic Stop events. They further showcased their skills by securing third place in Domestic Investigations, Officer Down scenarios, and Felony Traffic Stops. Notably, the Columbia Explorers made history by being honored as the 2025 Explorer Post of the Year, marking a significant milestone as the first agency from outside South Carolina to receive this prestigious accolade.
The dedicated members of this award-winning team include Daisy Boyle, Shelby Davis, Brenden Pavlik, Aiden Watkins, Wyatt Bridge, and Max Cochran. In celebration of their outstanding achievements, Columbia Mayor Chaz Molder has officially declared Friday, September 12, 2025, as “Columbia Police Department Explorer Post 786 Day,” honoring their commitment and success in law enforcement exploration.