Charleston is an attractive and desirable place to live, work, and visit. The city is also one of the most progressive in the South; however, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer/Questioning, Intersex, and Asexual/Ally (LGBTQIA) residents and visitors still experience crimes and discrimination related to their identities. CPD is committed to the safety of all LGBTQIA residents and visitors.
Charleston Police Department (CPD) SAFE PLACE is a signage program being implemented around the city, where local supporting community members, businesses, schools, and organizations, have the opportunity to visibly display their support for the LGBTQIA community and work closely with the Charleston Police Department in an effort to encourage reporting and reducing anti-LGBTQIA crimes.
Participating entities will serve as locations supporting safe and secure places for LGBTQIA victims to go when they experience crimes, discrimination, or harassment. Calling 911 and waiting for police to respond is imperative for suspect accountability, reducing crimes of hate, and showing a citywide “no tolerance” policy toward discrimination.
In addition to the 911 police response to these type of incidents, CPD has LGBTQIA liaison officers who promote partnership efforts between the police department and the LGBTQIA community. These liaison officers can also be a resource in answering questions you may have.