Advertisement Man in full drag surprised by reaction of ‘small town’ police Pacolet police say all are welcome, except criminals Share Shares Copy Link Copy

A man in full drag who was stopped at a traffic checkpoint in his small Upstate town was surprised by the reaction of the officers. Brandon James, who lives in Pacolet, posted Monday on Facebook: “Friday after the RuPaul's Drag Race viewing party at Club South 29 as we were on our way home, we came upon a license check entering Pacolet, and I freaked out because I was in full drag, live in a very small town and, well, the police aren’t always accepting, “I couldn’t have been more wrong! I would like to thank the Pacolet Police Department for being incredibly kind and reassuring me that I am safe in my town and that they support me and are very progressive. I’m proud to call the town of Pacolet my home!” The Pacolet Police Department responded by posting: “We appreciate your kind words, Brandon. The Police Department takes pride in putting our community first. No matter your race, sex, income status or sexual orientation. We serve and protect you. Everyone is welcome in Pacolet, South Carolina, aside from the criminals. They usually don’t enjoy their stay.” A few thousand people live in the Spartanburg County town of Pacolet, incorporated in 1896. On its webpage, the town is described as “a place of promise. “’Close to everything … far from ordinary’ is more than our community slogan; it is a new attitude,” the post says. “Pacolet’s attitude is best-described in our community covenant, where we promise to take care of each other and preserve nature’s blessings entrusted to us. “Pacolet is a place where over 5,000 call home, whether you live within the municipal boundary or in the counties of Union, Cherokee, or Spartanburg. We experience a unique blend of history, culture and progress. If you want to learn more about our natural and cultural heritage, please call the Pacolet Town Hall at 864-474-9504 for information on one of our Cultural Heritage Tours.” To watch Brandon's interview with Brennan McDavid on Facebook, click here.