kimber gist
THE WILL TO SURVIVE
Kimber Gist is a native of Woodruff, South Carolina, located in Spartanburg County, the youngest daughter of Terry and Deloise Gist. She graduated from Woodruff High School in May 2009, and continued her education at Charleston Southern University.
After completing a bachelors's degree in Criminal Justice in 2013, Gist began working for the Hill Finklea Detention Center, Berkeley County, as a Detention Center Officer. After six months of duty, she was promoted to the Uniform Patrol Division, with the Berkeley County Sheriff's Office, located in Moncks Corner, South Carolina.
In February 2015, she obtained her law enforcment certification from the South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy (SCCJA), and enrolled into Graduate Schooling at Charleston Southern University. After being shot in the line of duty in 2016, Gist continued her stuides and completed an MBA in Criminal Justice in 2018.
Gist rose through the ranks, achieving the honor of becoming the Sergeant of Professioanl Standards. She has held the title of Deputy and Detective, faithfully serving the citizens of South Carolina. Gist has one fur child, Paisley, who has been the light during periods of darkness for 10 years and counting.
Leaving the wonderful profession in July 2023, she accepted a position with the Department of Defense. In March 2024, she was inducted into the National Law Enforcement Officer Hall of Fame, for her courage and strength during her officer involved shooting.
She is a proud member of Psi Phi Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha, Sorority Incorporated, severing the community of East Baltimore.
PRESENTATION
THE WILL TO SURVIVE
On FEB 26, 2016, while conducting patrol in the Goose Creek area of Berkeley County, SC, Gist observed a single vehicle parked behind a closed grocery store. Due to the high crime and high drug nature of the area, she conducted a suspious vehicle investigation. During the course of the investigation, the suspect presented a firearm and shot Gist multiple times.
She was able to return fire and strike the suspect as the suspect left the scene. The suspect was located approximately 15 minutes away barricaded inside of a home, while Gist underwent multiple surgeries to save her life. This presentation is to encourage law enforcement to continue the good fight.