Richland County Sheriff Leon Lott and Columbia Police Chief Randy Scott held a press conference today to announce a jurisdictional agreement that will improve the County/City services; ultimately improving the quality of life for ALL citizens.
Sheriff Leon Lott and Chief Randy Scott were joined by deputies and officers from the two departments as they signed a formal written agreement that ensures public safety and the prevention of crime in the City and County. The formal agreement solidifies the Sheriff’s and Chief’s commitment to our citizens and to making our neighborhoods safe.
Sheriff Leon Lott has stated for years that citizens do not care what color the uniform is that an officer wears, just that a professional service is being provided. The Sheriff stated that he is committed to making sure that jurisdictional lines do not hinder deputies or officers from performing their sworn duty. Sheriff Leon Lott reiterated his commitment to providing effective and efficient programs, services and personnel to ALL citizens. The Sheriff added that through passion and commitment we will maintain a high standard of professional accountability and will reduce the fear of crime; that the Department’s mission will be accomplished by building unity between the Sheriff's Department, other law enforcement agencies and the community.
Chief Randy Scott stated that Criminal investigations have no boundaries. The Chief stated that with the City of Columbia encompassing Richland, Lexington and Kershaw Counties we must have cooperation within our City between law enforcement agencies. Chief Scott added that these relationships are key components to assisting crime victims who are a priority to the Columbia Police Department. The Chief is looking forward to maintaining such a partnership with the Richland County Sheriff’s Department.
Sheriff Leon Lott stated that the agreement will allow police officers from the City of Columbia to work out in the County without limits placed by jurisdictional lines – that if a call for help from a citizen goes out across the street, outside the City limits, a police officer will be able to provide service to a City of County resident.
Chief Randy Scott stated that in addition to the jurisdictional agreement, he has formally asked Sheriff Lott to partner and train officers in multiple areas of his Department. Victim’s Services, Uniform Patrol, Criminal Investigations, Fugitive Apprehension, Warrant Services and Training are examples of this step toward making our communities safer and bringing down a heavy hand on those that would threaten our citizens.