Police Officer of the Year

The Hanahan Police Department is proud to announce Detective Manuel Valderrama as the Hanahan Exchange Club Officer of the Year for 2023.   Detective Valderrama was named as our Officer of the Year on September 13, at our Council Meeting.   Valderrama began his law enforcement career with the city of Hanahan in May of 2020.   He is a graduate of Hanahan High School and resides within the city limits.    He takes pride in working with the City's youth and can often be found playing basketball with a group of kids or handing out bracelets or stickers to local children.  

On October, 2, 2023, Valderrama was promoted to the rank of Detective by Assistant Chief, Cassie Brooks.   Brooks noted that it was "His commitment to justice and his ability to see a case though from beginning to end made him a highly qualified candidate for the role of detective. "     He has continued to be a dedicated officer with the department and that dedication led to him being named as Employee of the Month on November 21, 2023, for his efforts in investigating a double homicide on Murray Drive.  Valderrama's efforts led to the arrest of two suspects in this case with multiple charges.    In addition to working cases as a detective, he often volunteers to cover weekend shifts  whenever needed.  Detective Valderrama has a kindness about him and a genuine love for people.   This is evident when he works with victims and children.  He can always be found translating for other officers, victims and witnesses.   He is an incredible team player and is always available to lend a hand.  

We commend Detective Valderrama for his dedication to duty and his unwavering commitment to our department.   He continues to excel He is an example of what Hanahan Police Department expects from their officers and is an asset to not only the Police Department, but to the City of Hanahan and all the citizens.  Congratulations on this well-deserved honor, Detective Valderrama.