Dylan Hightower is the first SLED-certified and trained crime analyst hired by a state solicitor’s office in SC.

Hightower, whose single career focus since childhood was to work in law enforcement, is passionate about his work.

“I love this job. It is exciting and I feel like I make a difference,” Hightower said.

A Lexington, SC native, Hightower came to USC Salkehatchie to play baseball and earn his degree. He credits his Salkehatchie professors and coaches with the self-discipline and focus he learned both in the classroom and on the field.

After leaving Salkehatchie, Hightower transferred to the Columbia campus where he earned a bachelor’s degree in sociology. After graduation, he applied for the SLED position and was hired by Solicitor Duffy Stone.