Search Kershaw County Police Blotter
Kershaw County Police Blotter records provide public access to arrest logs, booking information, and incident reports from law enforcement activities across the county. Located in the Midlands region of South Carolina, Kershaw County maintains records through the Sheriff's Office led by Sheriff Lee Boan, who was sworn in January 2019. The agency has achieved both SCLEA and CALEA accreditation, placing it among an elite group of law enforcement agencies. Residents and researchers can search these records to stay informed about public safety matters or find specific arrest information.
Kershaw County Quick Facts
Kershaw County Sheriff's Office Information
The Kershaw County Sheriff's Office maintains police blotter records for the entire county. Located at 821 Ridgeway Road in Lugoff, this agency handles all arrests made by deputies and coordinates with municipal police departments. Under the leadership of Sheriff Lee Boan, the agency achieved SCLEA accreditation for the first time in its history and CALEA accreditation, placing it among fewer than 5% of law enforcement agencies nationwide to meet over 300 required standards.
The Sheriff's Office operates a detention center for holding arrested individuals. Booking records are created when someone enters the facility. These records form the core of the police blotter for Kershaw County. The office also maintains incident reports from deputy activities. All of these documents fall under South Carolina's public records laws.
The agency offers online FOIA request capabilities through their website. This modern approach makes it easier for citizens to request public records without visiting the office in person. Visit kershawsheriff.com/contact to submit an online records request.
| Office |
Kershaw County Sheriff's Office 821 Ridgeway Road, P.O. Box 70 Lugoff, SC 29078 Phone: (803) 425-1512 |
|---|---|
| Sheriff | Lee Boan (sworn in January 2019) |
| Accreditations | SCLEA and CALEA accredited |
| Website | kershawsheriff.com |
Kershaw County Sheriff's Office Divisions
The Kershaw County Sheriff's Office operates several specialized divisions to serve the community. The Civil Division handles process service, evictions, and other civil matters. This division can be reached at (803) 424-4030 for questions about civil processes and paperwork.
The Court Security Division is responsible for maintaining safety and order in the courthouse. Staff provide security for judicial proceedings and protect court personnel. Contact the Court Security Division at (803) 425-7229 for questions about courthouse procedures and security policies.
| Division | Phone |
|---|---|
| Civil Division | (803) 424-4030 |
| Court Security | (803) 425-7229 |
| Main Office | (803) 425-1512 |
Where to Find Kershaw County Police Blotter Records
Kershaw County offers several ways to access police blotter information. The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) provides statewide criminal history checks. This service covers arrests from all counties including Kershaw. Visit SLED CATCH to request a criminal records search. This system requires a fee and proper identification.
The South Carolina Department of Public Safety maintains additional records resources. Their website provides information about highway patrol arrests and collision reports. While not specific to Kershaw County, these records may include relevant incidents. The department serves as a central resource for public safety information statewide.
Local options include visiting the Sheriff's Office in person or using their online FOIA request system. Staff can assist with record requests during business hours. The online system provides a convenient way to submit requests from anywhere. The Freedom of Information Act governs access to these records in South Carolina.
How to Search Kershaw County Arrest Records
Finding arrest records in Kershaw County requires knowing where to look. Start with the name of the person you are searching for. Arrest records are typically indexed by the individual's name and date of birth. You will also need the approximate date of the arrest. This information helps narrow down the search results significantly.
Online search options include the SLED CATCH database. This system allows name-based criminal history searches. Results show convictions and arrest information from across South Carolina. The search covers Kershaw County and all other jurisdictions. A small fee applies for each search request. You must provide identification to use this service.
For recent arrests, contact the Kershaw County Sheriff's Office. Staff can provide information about who is currently held in the local detention center. The facility processes all bookings for the Sheriff's Office and municipal agencies. Information about charges and bond amounts may be available.
To request records online, visit kershawsheriff.com/contact and submit a FOIA request. To request in person, visit the Sheriff's Office during business hours. Bring a valid photo identification. Staff can help you locate the specific records you need. Copy fees may apply depending on the number of pages requested.
Kershaw County Detention Center
The Kershaw County Detention Center holds individuals arrested in the county. This facility processes all bookings for the Sheriff's Office. When someone is arrested, they come here first. Staff collect personal information and photograph the individual. They also document the charges at this time.
Detention center records form a key part of the police blotter. These records show who was arrested and when. They list the charges filed against each person. For information about current inmates, contact the Sheriff's Office. Staff can provide basic information about charges and bond amounts.
The detention center operates under strict security protocols. Visitors must follow specific rules when coming to the facility. Phone calls and mail are monitored for security purposes. Inmates may receive visits from family and attorneys. All activities are logged as part of the facility records.
For questions about an inmate, contact the Kershaw County Sheriff's Office directly. Staff cannot discuss ongoing cases or investigations. Family members may inquire about visitation schedules and facility rules. The detention center serves as a holding facility, not a long-term prison.
Public Records Law in Kershaw County
South Carolina's Freedom of Information Act governs access to police records. This law applies to all government agencies in the state. It includes the Kershaw County Sheriff's Office and local police departments. The act grants citizens the right to inspect and copy public documents. Law enforcement records fall under this law with some exceptions.
Not all police records are available to the public. Active investigation files may be exempt from disclosure. Juvenile records receive special protection under state law. Information that could endanger witnesses may be withheld. The agency must explain why they deny a records request.
To make a FOIA request, submit a written request through the online form or by mail. Describe the records you want to review. Include your contact information for follow-up. The agency has ten business days to respond. They may charge reasonable fees for copying and staff time.
If a request is denied, you have options for appeal. The South Carolina FOIA allows for administrative appeals. You may also seek review in court if necessary. Many agencies work with requesters to provide appropriate records. Understanding your rights helps ensure successful access to public information.
Recent Bookings and Mugshots in Kershaw County
Recent booking information provides a snapshot of current law enforcement activity. The Kershaw County Sheriff's Office can provide daily arrest logs or booking reports. These show who was arrested in the past 24 to 48 hours. The information typically includes the arrestee's name and charges. Some logs also show the arresting agency and bond amount.
Mugshots are photographs taken during the booking process. They serve as a visual record of the individual at the time of arrest. South Carolina law generally makes booking photos public records. However, agencies have discretion about publishing them online. Contact the Sheriff's Office to inquire about viewing booking photos.
The VINELink system offers another way to track inmates. This nationwide service provides custody status information. You can register to receive notifications about specific individuals. The system covers many correctional facilities including county jails. VINELink is free to use for crime victims and concerned citizens.
Nearby Counties
Kershaw County borders several other South Carolina counties. If you cannot find a record in Kershaw, try searching neighboring jurisdictions. Arrests may occur across county lines. The following counties are located near Kershaw: