Support Deputy Ellerbe's Recovery

On the afternoon of July 3, 2021, Deputy Dominique Ellerbe was seriously injured after a crash that began as a pursuit in Florence County. The suspect was initially stopped for a moving violation and then sped away. Deputy Ellerbe was providing assistance when she lost control of her vehicle, crossing the median and striking a tree. Ellerbe was trapped for nearly two hours before being airlifted to the hospital.

Deputy Ellerbe has worked for the Florence County Sheriff’s Office since February 2020.

“All of our deputies know that this is a dangerous job, and like Dominique, we accept that,” shared Sheriff T.J. Joye. “She has such a fighting spirit, we know that she can’t wait to get back to work. We’re praying for a full and speedy recovery.”

After almost two weeks in the intensive care unit, Deputy Ellerbe was released on July 15, 2021. According to the sheriff’s office, she has a long road ahead of her. Deputy Ellerbe sustained significant injuries and is not expected to return to duty until at least January 2022.

Ellerbe is a single mother who lives with her 6-year-old daughter. To support Deputy Ellerbe and her daughter during her recovery, Serve & Connect has partnered with the Florence County Sheriff’s Office to establish a fundraiser. One hundred percent of funds raised will be provided directly to Deputy Ellerbe to support her recovery.

“We are so thankful that Deputy Ellerbe is home recovering with her daughter,” shared Serve & Connect CEO Kassy Alia Ray. “We understand she has a long journey ahead. Dominique bravely put her life in danger by serving her community.”

“Now it is our turn to support her and her daughter. We hope the community will join us by spreading the word about this fundraiser and donating. Every dollar will help her heal following this traumatic incident.”

Donations may be made through a fundraiser campaign established on Serve & Connect’s website. The campaign will be open through October 2021. This fundraiser is endorsed by the South Carolina Law Enforcement Officers Association, the South Carolina Sheriff's Association, South Carolina Police Chiefs Association, South Carolina Fraternal Order of Police, and the Florence County Sheriff's Office. All donations are tax deductible.

Serve & Connect is a nonprofit organization that aims to foster positive change through police-community partnerships. Kassy Alia Ray founded the organization in memory of her late husband, Officer Gregory Alia, who was killed in the line of duty in 2015. Backed by evidence-based practices designed to fuel collaboration, Serve & Connect provides the tools, training and technical assistance necessary for police departments, local organizations, leaders and residents to work together to improve community outcomes.