How to file a complaint with the Georgetown County Sheriff’s Office
Your Complaint is Important
The Georgetown County Sheriff’s Office is committed to receiving and accepting complaints about the actions and performance of all of our personnel. Our goal is to provide the highest quality law enforcement service to our citizens. We realize that mistakes can be made and that the actions of our personnel may fall short of your expectations.
We seek to fortify the public’s trust from which our authority derives. Therefore, the courteous receipt of complaints, thorough and impartial investigation, and just disposition are important in maintaining the confidence of our citizens.
Understanding the Process
A complaint may be made in person, by telephone, or in writing.
- In person at the Georgetown County Sheriff’s Office located at 430 North Fraser Georgetown, SC 29440.
- By phone by calling the Sheriff’s Office at (843) 546-5102
- In writing by filling out the complaint form and mailing it to the Sheriff’s Office at
P.O. Box 1292 Georgetown, SC 29442
NOTE: Making a citizen’s complaint with the Georgetown County Sheriff’s Office does not prevent you from making a complaint with other government authorities.
The Interview
A supervisor will discuss the complaint with you. It may be possible to satisfy you by giving an explanation for the employee’s action. If so, no further action will be taken. However, if the complaint is not resolved at that time, the supervisor will take your information and make sure that the complaint is considered by the appropriate personnel.
After the Complaint is Made
A record of your complaint will be forwarded to the Sheriff’s Office of Professional Standards for evaluation and assignment. They will decide whether the complaint should be handled by the involved personnel’s supervisor or whether to initiate an internal investigation.
Understanding the Process
How Long does the Process Take?
The sheriff requires that investigations of complaints be completed within 60 days from the time the complaint is received. You will be notified in writing about the disposition of the complaint.
After the Investigation
The results of the Complaint Investigation will be discussed with the Sheriff and appropriate staff. If evidence supports a violation of policy only, the complaint will be handled internally. If the complaint is a criminal matter, it will be forwarded to the Solicitor’s Office.
What if the Employee is Found to be in Violation of Policy?
The captain over the employee will provide the Sheriff with a recommendation for discipline based on the evidence. In severe cases this may result in termination of employment, reduction in rank, or suspension without pay. Other less severe actions would include training and counseling by supervisor or command staff.
The Sheriff is the final authority for disciplinary action.
Click link below to file a Complain
