Chief Dwayne Brunson joined the Bureau of Protective Services for the South Carolina Department of Public Safety in 1998, working his way to the rank of Major in 2020 before being appointed commander in July 2025. 

Prior to joining BPS, he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from SC State University. He further pursued his education during his career as a BPS officer, graduating from the SC Criminal Justice Academy in 1999, the FBI National Academy in 2018, and becoming a South Carolina Certified Public Manager in 2018.  

BPS is responsible for safety and security at the State Capitol Complex, the SC Supreme Court, the Governor’s Mansion, and other designated state facilities. It boasts several specialized units including a drone unit, bike patrols, K-9s and intelligence unit.