Charleston County Sheriff 2024 Candidates

The Charleston County Sheriff is the lead law enforcement officer handling criminal cases in Charleston County. Each candidate was asked the question below and allowed 125 words to answer.

Q:What will you do to elevate the training of animal control officers and their superiors within the Sheriff’s Office so that investigations of animal cases are supported with the necessary resources and addressed consistently, along with the implementation of leading animal control practices in the field to better serve the taxpayers of Charleston County? As part of your answer, please share any ways that you would plan to engage Charleston Animal Society working toward solutions.

KRISTIN GRAZIANO (D)

Charleston County Sheriff Candidate (Incumbent):

To elevate training of animal control officers we implemented comprehensive, ongoing training programs; including advanced field training and Essential Animal Services Training (EAST) through Code 3 Associates.

We partner with the Humane Society of the United States and other law enforcement agencies for additional training. Engaging with Charleston Animal Society, we will collaborate on best practices, share resources, and develop joint initiatives to improve animal welfare.

Regular meetings and feedback sessions with the Society will help us stay aligned and improve practices; benefiting taxpayers of Charleston County. We currently have two K-9 success stories. K-9 Deputies adopted shelter dogs and trained them to detect explosive devices and guns. These new K-9 partners “Winney” (Winchester) and “Maggie” are exceptional partners in our fight against crime.

CARL RITCHIE (R)

Charleston County Sheriff Candidate:

I would implement specialized training programs, such as those offered by the National Animal Care & Control Association and the American Animal Cruelty Investigations School. This will provide the skills and knowledge animal control officers need to confidently investigate cases.

Facilitating community engagement in partnership with Charleston Animal Society would build trust and involve community members. By implementing such programs, animal control officers and Charleston Animal Society can educate the public on animal welfare, investigate cases of neglect and cruelty collaboratively, and encourage responsible pet ownership.

I would ensure all Animal Control Officers are empowered and have the resources they need to effectively investigate cases. Scheduling monthly meetings including the Animal Society and other municipalities would allow for open lines of communication.