About Curtis M. Singleton: Veteran, Author, and Public-Service Leader
A Life Shaped by Service, Leadership, and Purpose
Curtis M. Singleton, also known as Curtis Singleton, is a South Carolina author, U.S. Army veteran, retired law enforcement executive, community advocate, and public-service professional. His career reflects more than 25 years of leadership and service in law enforcement, public safety, military operations, education, advocacy, and community engagement.
Throughout his professional journey, Curtis M. Singleton has remained committed to a central principle: leadership is measured by how effectively a person serves others. His experience spans frontline public safety, criminal investigations, executive leadership, professional instruction, organizational management, and community-centered advocacy.
Military Service
Curtis M. Singleton served in the South Carolina Army National Guard as an Automated Logistics Specialist. His military service included deployment to Balad, Iraq, in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.
During his service, Singleton contributed to logistics, operational readiness, and mission support. His military experience strengthened the discipline, adaptability, and commitment to teamwork that would guide his later work in law enforcement and public leadership.
His military recognitions include the Army Achievement Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Armed Forces Reserve Medal with Mobilization Device, and Army Service Ribbon.
More Than 25 Years in Law Enforcement and Public Safety
Following the beginning of his military career, Curtis M. Singleton built an extensive career in South Carolina law enforcement and public safety. His experience included corrections, patrol operations, criminal investigations, public-safety supervision, training, and executive leadership.
As a criminal investigator, Singleton handled serious cases requiring careful interviews, evidence collection, documentation, and coordination with prosecutors and other public-safety professionals. His investigative work reinforced the importance of accuracy, accountability, and treating every person with dignity.
His career later advanced into senior leadership, including service as Chief of Police in Chester, South Carolina. In executive leadership, Curtis M. Singleton was responsible for departmental operations, personnel, public-safety priorities, community engagement, and the management of an approximately $1.8 million departmental budget.
Singleton also helped develop community-centered initiatives designed to strengthen relationships between law enforcement officers, young people, families, and local organizations. His leadership philosophy emphasized visibility, responsibility, professional development, and service beyond traditional enforcement.
After more than 25 years in law enforcement, Curtis M. Singleton retired on April 8, 2024.
Training, Education, and Professional Development
Education and training have remained important parts of Singleton’s professional journey. For approximately two decades, he served as a guest instructor at the South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy, contributing practical experience to the development of law enforcement professionals.
He has also worked as an adjunct criminal justice instructor, helping students connect classroom principles with the responsibilities and ethical demands of public-safety service.
Curtis M. Singleton holds a Master of Public Administration, a Bachelor of Science in Management, and an associate degree in Criminal Justice. His professional development includes command-level law enforcement education, FBI leadership training, instructor development, and other specialized public-safety training.
Lifesaving Service and Public Recognition
Singleton’s commitment to protecting others has extended beyond titles and assigned duties. On December 23, 2016, he performed CPR during a medical emergency and helped save a life. His actions were later recognized through a lifesaving award presented during Police Week in 2017.
In 2026, Curtis M. Singleton was recognized by the South Carolina Senate through a resolution honoring his military service, law enforcement career, lifesaving actions, leadership, and continuing contributions to South Carolina communities.
He was also selected as a 2026 Heroes Unite Community Impact Award honoree, recognizing his work in veteran service, law enforcement leadership, disability advocacy, and community engagement.
Advocacy and Continuing Public Service
Retirement from law enforcement did not end Singleton’s commitment to service. He continues to work in advocacy, community leadership, and public service initiatives throughout South Carolina.
His present work includes supporting the rights and well-being of vulnerable individuals, including young people and people with disabilities. This work draws upon his investigative experience, knowledge of public institutions, and belief that every person deserves to be treated with fairness, dignity, and respect.
Curtis M. Singleton also contributes through civic and organizational service. His involvement has included the Central Midlands Council of Governments Board, the Columbia Area Mental Health Center Board, and the 100 Black Men of Greater Columbia. Through these roles, he supports regional cooperation, mental-health awareness, youth development, education, and stronger communities.
Author of Purple Verses on Gold-Lined Pages
In 2026, Curtis M. Singleton expanded his service journey through authorship with the publication of Purple Verses on Gold-Lined Pages.
The poetry collection explores leadership, faith, military service, law enforcement, resilience, brotherhood, family, healing, and the lessons gained through life’s challenges. The book reflects Singleton’s belief that personal experiences can encourage others, create meaningful conversations, and provide hope during difficult seasons.
His work as an author continues the same mission that has guided his military, professional, and community service: to inspire, lead, and elevate others.
A Continuing Legacy of Leadership
Today, Curtis M. Singleton continues building a legacy grounded in service, accountability, resilience, and purpose. His story is not defined by one position or chapter. It represents a continuing journey through military service, law enforcement leadership, education, advocacy, authorship, and community involvement.
Whether supporting young people, advocating for vulnerable individuals, contributing to public boards, or using written words to encourage others, Curtis M. Singleton remains committed to strengthening communities throughout South Carolina.
Inspire. Lead. Elevate.
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