Kershaw County Criminal Records

What Is Kershaw County Criminal Records

Kershaw County criminal records are official documents that chronicle an individual's interactions with the criminal justice system within Kershaw County, South Carolina. These records serve as the official history of arrests, charges, court proceedings, and dispositions maintained by various county and state agencies pursuant to South Carolina Code of Laws § 30-4-30.

Criminal records in Kershaw County typically include:

• Arrest reports and booking information
• Charging documents
• Court proceedings and hearing schedules
• Case dispositions and sentencing information
• Incarceration records
• Probation and parole documentation

The distinction between various types of criminal records is important for proper understanding:

Arrest vs. Conviction Records

• Arrest records document when law enforcement takes a person into custody based on probable cause
• Conviction records indicate that a court has found the individual guilty of the charged offense
• Under South Carolina law, both arrest and conviction records are generally considered public information, though with certain exceptions

Felony vs. Misdemeanor Records

• Felony records document more serious crimes punishable by imprisonment exceeding one year
• Misdemeanor records reflect less serious offenses typically punishable by up to one year in jail
• Both categories are maintained in Kershaw County's criminal record systems

Adult vs. Juvenile Records

• Adult records (18 and older) are generally accessible to the public
• Juvenile records (under 18) are typically sealed and confidential under South Carolina Code § 63-19-2010, with limited exceptions for certain serious offenses

Active Warrants vs. Historical Records

• Active warrant information documents current outstanding arrest orders
• Historical records document past warrants that have been served or dismissed

Several agencies maintain criminal records in Kershaw County:

Kershaw County Sheriff's Office
821 Ridgeway Road
Lugoff, SC 29078
(803) 425-1512
Kershaw County Sheriff's Office

The Sheriff's Office maintains arrest records, booking information, and jail records for the county.

Clerk of Court for Kershaw County
1121 Broad Street
Camden, SC 29020
(803) 425-1500
Kershaw County Clerk of Court

The Clerk's Office maintains court case records, dispositions, and sentencing information.

South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED)
4400 Broad River Road
Columbia, SC 29210
(803) 737-9000
South Carolina Law Enforcement Division

SLED maintains the central repository of criminal history information for the entire state, including Kershaw County.

Are Criminal Records Public In Kershaw County

Criminal records in Kershaw County are generally public information in accordance with the South Carolina Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), codified under South Carolina Code § 30-4-10 et seq. This statute establishes the presumption that government records, including criminal records, should be accessible to the public unless specifically exempted by law.

The South Carolina FOIA states: "The General Assembly finds that it is vital in a democratic society that public business be performed in an open and public manner so that citizens shall be advised of the performance of public officials and of the decisions that are reached in public activity and in the formulation of public policy."

Public criminal records in Kershaw County typically include:

• Adult arrest records
• Court dockets and case files
• Conviction records
• Sentencing information
• Incarceration records
• Sex offender registry information

However, certain categories of criminal records are restricted from public access:

Restricted Criminal Records:

• Active criminal investigations (until concluded)
• Grand jury proceedings and testimony
• Juvenile records (with limited exceptions for violent crimes)
• Expunged or sealed records
• Records sealed by court order
• Certain victim information in sensitive cases
• Records that would constitute an unreasonable invasion of personal privacy

The South Carolina Attorney General has issued opinions clarifying that while arrest records are generally public, agencies may exercise discretion in withholding certain information if disclosure would harm an ongoing investigation or compromise personal privacy beyond what the legislature intended.

Law enforcement agencies in Kershaw County may withhold information if they can demonstrate that disclosure would:

1. Interfere with prospective law enforcement proceedings
2. Deprive a person of the right to a fair trial
3. Constitute an unwarranted invasion of personal privacy
4. Disclose confidential sources
5. Disclose investigative techniques
6. Endanger the life or physical safety of law enforcement personnel

Members of the public seeking access to criminal records should be aware that while the presumption favors disclosure, certain information may be redacted or withheld based on these statutory exemptions.

How To Look Up Criminal Records In Kershaw County in 2026

Members of the public may access Kershaw County criminal records through several established channels. The following procedures outline the current methods for obtaining these records:

In-Person Requests at the Clerk of Court

The Kershaw County Clerk of Court maintains official court records for criminal cases processed through the county's court system.

1. Visit the Kershaw County Courthouse during regular business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM)
2. Complete a records request form, providing specific information about the case or individual
3. Present valid government-issued photo identification
4. Pay applicable search and copy fees (currently $5.00 for record search plus $1.00 per page for copies)
5. For certified copies, an additional fee of $5.00 per document applies

Kershaw County Clerk of Court
1121 Broad Street
Camden, SC 29020
(803) 425-1500
Kershaw County Clerk of Court

Sheriff's Office Records Requests

For arrest records, booking information, and incident reports:

1. Visit the Kershaw County Sheriff's Office Records Division
2. Complete the required records request form
3. Provide case number or identifying information about the individual
4. Present valid identification
5. Pay applicable fees (fees vary based on document type)

Kershaw County Sheriff's Office
821 Ridgeway Road
Lugoff, SC 29078
(803) 425-1512
Kershaw County Sheriff's Office

Mail Requests

For those unable to appear in person, mail requests are accepted by both the Clerk of Court and Sheriff's Office:

1. Submit a written request including:
   • Full name of the subject
   • Date of birth or approximate age
   • Case number (if known)
   • Specific information requested
   • Requestor's contact information
2. Include a self-addressed stamped envelope
3. Enclose a check or money order for applicable fees
4. Mail to the appropriate agency address

South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) Background Checks

For comprehensive statewide criminal history:

1. Submit a completed SLED records check form
2. Include a check or money order for $25 per record search
3. Provide a copy of valid identification
4. Mail to SLED or submit through their online portal

SLED Records Department
4400 Broad River Road
Columbia, SC 29210
(803) 737-9000
South Carolina Law Enforcement Division

Pursuant to South Carolina Code § 23-3-115, SLED is authorized to disseminate criminal history information in accordance with state and federal regulations.

How To Find Criminal Records in Kershaw County Online?

Kershaw County offers several digital platforms that provide public access to criminal records information. These online resources vary in scope and accessibility, with each system containing different components of the criminal record ecosystem.

Kershaw County Public Index

The South Carolina Judicial Branch maintains a statewide Public Index that includes Kershaw County court records:

1. Navigate to the South Carolina Judicial Branch Public Index
2. Select "Kershaw" from the county dropdown menu
3. Choose "Criminal" as the case type
4. Search by name, case number, or filing date
5. Review results showing case numbers, charges, filing dates, and disposition information

This system provides:

• Case numbers and filing dates
• Charges and statutes cited
• Scheduled court dates
• Case status and disposition
• Judge assignments
• Attorney information

Kershaw County Sheriff's Office Inmate Search

The Sheriff's Office maintains a current roster of individuals in custody:

1. Visit the Kershaw County Sheriff's Office website
2. Navigate to the "Inmate Search" section
3. Search by name or booking number
4. View current inmates, charges, and booking information

This database includes:

• Current inmate roster
• Booking photos
• Charges
• Bond information
• Scheduled court dates

South Carolina Department of Corrections Inmate Search

For individuals sentenced to state prison from Kershaw County:

1. Access the SC Department of Corrections Inmate Search
2. Enter the individual's name or SCDC number
3. Review incarceration information, including facility location and projected release date

South Carolina Sex Offender Registry

Pursuant to South Carolina Code § 23-3-430, information about registered sex offenders is available online:

1. Visit the South Carolina Sex Offender Registry
2. Accept the terms of use
3. Search by name, location, or non-compliant status
4. Filter results to Kershaw County
5. View detailed offender information, including photographs, addresses, and offense information

South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) Criminal Records Check

For official statewide criminal history reports:

1. Access the SLED CATCH (Citizens Access To Criminal History) system
2. Create an account or log in
3. Pay the required fee ($25 per search)
4. Enter the subject's information
5. Receive instant results for name-based searches

Important considerations for online searches:

• Registration may be required for certain systems
• Some information may be redacted in accordance with privacy laws
• Not all historical records are digitized or available online
• Official certified copies typically require in-person or mail requests
• Online records may not include complete case files or exhibits

Can You Search Kershaw County Criminal Records for Free?

Kershaw County residents and members of the public have several options to access criminal records without payment, though free access is typically limited to basic information or in-person inspection. South Carolina's Freedom of Information Act, S.C. Code § 30-4-30, establishes the right to inspect public records during normal business hours without charge, though fees may be assessed for searches, retrieval, and copies.

Free In-Person Inspection Options:

Kershaw County Courthouse - Public Access Terminals
1121 Broad Street
Camden, SC 29020
(803) 425-1500
Kershaw County Clerk of Court

• Available during regular business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM)
• Self-service terminals provide access to the county's case management system
• No charge for viewing records on-site
• Printing fees apply ($1.00 per page)
• Photo ID required for building entry

Kershaw County Law Library
1121 Broad Street
Camden, SC 29020
(803) 425-1500

• Open to the public during courthouse hours
• Contains legal resources and public access terminals
• Staff cannot provide legal advice but can assist with system navigation
• No charge for research or viewing public records

Free Online Resources:

1. South Carolina Judicial Branch Public Index

   • Provides basic case information for Kershaw County criminal cases
   • Includes charges, hearing dates, and disposition information
   • No registration or payment required
   • Available at SC Judicial Branch Public Index

2. Kershaw County Sheriff's Office Inmate Search

   • Shows current jail population and basic booking information
   • Includes charges and bond amounts
   • Free public access without registration
   • Available through the Sheriff's Office website

3. South Carolina Department of Corrections Inmate Search

   • Provides information on individuals sentenced to state prison
   • Includes conviction information and projected release dates
   • Free access without registration
   • Available at SC Department of Corrections

4. South Carolina Sex Offender Registry

   • Provides information on registered sex offenders in Kershaw County
   • Includes photographs, addresses, and offense information
   • Free access with acceptance of terms
   • Available at SC Sex Offender Registry

It is important to note that while basic record inspection is available without charge, fees may apply for:

• Extensive research requiring staff time
• Certified copies of documents
• Background checks through SLED
• Printed copies of electronic records
• Records requiring redaction or special processing

Pursuant to S.C. Code § 30-4-30(B), "The public body may establish and collect fees not to exceed the actual cost of searching for or making copies of records." This provision allows agencies to recover reasonable costs associated with fulfilling records requests.

What's Included in a Kershaw County Criminal Record?

Kershaw County criminal records contain comprehensive documentation of an individual's interactions with the criminal justice system. These records typically include several categories of information as outlined below:

Identifying Information:

• Full legal name and known aliases
• Date of birth and age
• Physical description (height, weight, eye/hair color)
• Booking photograph (mugshot)
• Last known address
• State Identification Number (SID)
• FBI number (if applicable)
• Fingerprint classification

Arrest Information:

• Date and time of arrest
• Arresting agency and officer
• Location of arrest
• Booking number and processing details
• Initial charges filed
• Probable cause statement
• Bail or bond amount
• Detention facility information

Court Case Information:

• Case number and filing date
• Court of jurisdiction (Magistrate, Circuit, or Municipal)
• Judge assignment
• Charging documents (indictments, informations)
• Statute citations and offense classifications
• Felony or misdemeanor designation
• Plea information
• Attorney representation details
• Pre-trial motions and rulings
• Hearing dates and continuances

Disposition and Sentencing:

• Verdict (guilty, not guilty, dismissed, nolle prosequi)
• Conviction date (if applicable)
• Sentencing details:
  • Incarceration length and facility
  • Probation terms and conditions
  • Fines and court costs
  • Restitution orders
  • Community service requirements
  • Treatment program mandates
• Appeal information (if applicable)
• Probation/parole status and violations
• Completion of sentence documentation

Additional Information:

• Active warrants or bench orders
• Protective or restraining orders
• Sex offender registration requirements
• DUI/DWI history
• Traffic violations connected to criminal cases
• Pending charges in other jurisdictions
• Prior criminal history references
• Victim notification requirements

The comprehensiveness of criminal records varies based on the stage of the criminal justice process and the maintaining agency. Records maintained by the Kershaw County Clerk of Court focus primarily on court proceedings and dispositions, while Sheriff's Office records contain more detailed arrest and booking information.

Pursuant to South Carolina Code § 17-22-950, certain criminal records may be eligible for expungement under specific circumstances, in which case the information would be removed from public access and treated as if the offense never occurred.

Criminal records in Kershaw County are subject to South Carolina's records retention schedules, which determine how long different types of records must be maintained before archiving or destruction.

How Long Does Kershaw County Keep Criminal Records?

Kershaw County maintains criminal records according to retention schedules established by the South Carolina Department of Archives and History under authority granted by South Carolina Code § 30-1-90. These schedules vary by document type and severity of offense, creating a complex matrix of retention periods.

Court Records Retention:

• Felony Case Files: Permanently maintained
  • Murder, manslaughter, and criminal sexual conduct cases
  • Armed robbery and kidnapping
  • Major drug trafficking cases
• Other Felony Cases: 15 years after case closure
  • Property crimes
  • Non-violent felonies
  • Drug possession with intent to distribute
• Misdemeanor Case Files: 10 years after case closure
  • Simple assault
  • Petit larceny
  • First-offense DUI
• Court Dockets and Indexes: Permanently maintained
  • Chronological listing of all cases
  • Alphabetical indexes of defendants
• Grand Jury Records: Permanently maintained
  • Indictments
  • True bills and no bills
  • Grand jury minutes (sealed)

Law Enforcement Records Retention:

• Arrest Reports: 10 years for adults
  • Includes booking information
  • Fingerprint cards
  • Photographs
• Incident Reports:
  • Felonies: 10 years
  • Misdemeanors: 5 years
  • Non-criminal incidents: 3 years
• Investigation Files:
  • Homicide/Death: Permanently maintained
  • Sexual Assaults: 75 years
  • Other Felonies: 30 years
  • Misdemeanors: 10 years
• Jail Records:
  • Booking and intake: 10 years
  • Inmate medical records: 10 years after release
  • Visitor logs: 3 years

Specialized Records:

• Sex Offender Registry Information: Lifetime for Tier III offenders, with potential for removal after 30 years for Tier I offenders under specific circumstances

• Domestic Violence Records: 15 years

• Juvenile Records: Until age 21 for most offenses, with exceptions for violent crimes which may be maintained longer

• Expunged Records: Immediately destroyed upon court order pursuant to South Carolina Code § 17-22-950

• DNA Records: Permanently maintained for convicted felons in the state database

The South Carolina Department of Archives and History periodically reviews and updates these retention schedules. Local agencies must adhere to these minimum retention periods but may maintain records longer at their discretion.

Digital records are subject to the same retention requirements as paper records. As Kershaw County has transitioned to electronic record-keeping systems, provisions have been made for long-term digital preservation of permanently valuable records.

Records that have met their retention requirements may be destroyed only after approval from the South Carolina Department of Archives and History, which evaluates records for potential historical or research value before authorizing destruction.

Lookup Criminal Records in Kershaw County