Richland County Sheriff's Department

10/16/2026

The South Carolina State Fair is in town, and M/D A. Sanders is ready for all the fun! After sharing an important safety message earlier this week, SGT T.J. Norton is teaming up with her to keep the streets safe tonight on .
Grab your fair snacks and tune in at 9 p.m. EST on REELZ to catch them in action!
Lights, camera, patrol—LET’S GO!

10/16/2026

When Richland County residents want to show their appreciation for our deputies, they know how to make it sweet! Sheriff Lott and the entire department extend a big thank-you to Greg Mancini for brightening our morning with dozens of delicious donuts and plenty of coffee.
M/D J. Washington enjoyed the treats so much, she even tossed her hat into the ring to become the department’s very first donut eating model!
“Thank you, Greg! We appreciate you—and all the wonderful citizens of Richland County. The donuts were delicious!” — Sheriff Leon Lott

10/16/2026

23 years later. Never forgotten. 🖤💙

On October 16, 2003, the Richland County Sheriff’s Department lost one of its own when Deputy Donnie Washington was killed in the line of duty.

Today, we honor his life, his service and the ultimate sacrifice he made while protecting our community.

Though the years have passed, his memory remains a part of RCSD. We remember not only Deputy Washington, but all of our fallen deputies who gave their lives in service to others.

Their sacrifice will never be forgotten. Their legacy will always live on.

Once RCSD family, always RCSD family.

💙 End of Watch: October 16, 2003

10/16/2026

💜 Abuse doesn't always leave a bruise.

Domestic violence comes in many forms, and not all of them leave visible scars. Recognizing the warning signs is an important step toward breaking the cycle of abuse.

This Domestic Violence Awareness Month, we're encouraging everyone to learn the signs, look out for one another, and remember that help is available.

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, please reach out to RCSD. Our deputies and Victim Advocates work closely with numerous community partners to provide support, resources, and assistance to those who need it.

You are not alone, and you don't have to face it alone. 💜

📞 National Domestic Violence Hotline: 800-799-7233
🚨 In an emergency, call 911.

10/16/2026

Dr. Leigh Hicks, an assistant professor at the Barbara Solomon School of Social Work at Walden University, was inducted into the Benedict College Athletic Hall of Fame on Thursday evening. Dr. Hicks distinguished herself as a stand-out member of Benedict College’s track and field and cross-country teams and later served as a deputy sheriff with the Richland County Sheriff’s Department.

Sheriff Leon Lott, a former mentor to Dr. Hicks, was honored to es**rt her during the induction ceremony.

“Dr. Hicks is an inspirational leader and a pillar of the community. Through her work with the Miss Willow Lane Pageant and the Miss Footsteps 2 Success Pageant, she has empowered and mentored young women through leadership and personal development initiatives. She set a high professional standard as a deputy sheriff and established new standards of excellence as a collegiate athlete. Dr. Hicks exemplifies the professionalism we should all strive to achieve. I am extremely proud of her and congratulate her on this well-deserved honor.” — Sheriff Leon Lott

Deputy Curtis Wilson, also an inductee of the Benedict College Athletic Hall of Fame, had the honor of serving as master of ceremonies for the event.

10/16/2026

🎡 We're Fair-ly certain it's time to play Spot the Differences! 😉 How many differences can you spot between these two photos? 👀

10/15/2026

Sheriff Leon Lott stepped behind the mic this afternoon as a special guest on “Game Changers,” a new seven-episode podcast hosted by Heyward Career and Technology Center Principal Mr. Moye!

Located in Columbia, Heyward Career and Technology Center is helping prepare the next generation for success through hands-on training, industry certifications, and career opportunities in high-demand fields.

Sheriff Lott will be featured in Episode 7, “Called to Serve,” sharing his perspective on a career dedicated to public service and law enforcement.

🎧 We can't wait for this episode to drop! Stay tuned for the release and get ready to hear what it means to be called to serve!

10/15/2026

10/15/2026

🍂🍁 Fall weather, great finds, and a little treasure hunting!

The Richland County Citizens Academy Alumni Association is hosting its Fall Community Yard Sale, and you're invited!

🗓️ Saturday, November 7
⏰ 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM
📍 2500 Decker Blvd., Columbia

Come browse, shop, and support the community! You never know what hidden treasures you'll find! 🛍️
Want to be a vendor? Spaces are available!

🍁 Single Space: $20
🍁 Double Space or Food Truck: $40

For vendor information, contact Donna Rhodes at (732) 687-0099.