This afternoon, County Administration and the County Attorney attended the press conference held by Sheriff Leon Lott at the Richland County Sheriff’s Department to receive an update on the findings of their investigation into the death of Mr. Antonius Randolph. A loss of life in this manner is not only disheartening but alarming, and we continue to express our deepest sympathy to the family of Mr. Randolph.

During the press conference, it was communicated that cell doors were unlocked or left open; however, this is not a practice of the detention center. As identified by the Sheriff, certain detainees continue their alleged criminal activities, such as the making of homemade contraband and compromising security locks while in custody. As we’ve continually stated, County Administration is taking the necessary steps to improve the facility and reduce detainees’ ability to commit these types of crimes.

We want to ensure those who are employed at the Alvin S. Glenn Detention Center and the detainees in our custody know that their safety continues to be of the highest priority. We will continue to work diligently in collaboration with the Richland County Sheriff’s Department to ensure all parties involved are prosecuted to the fullest extent of law.