Darlington Detention Center approved to hire two officers to work toward meeting state regulations

DARLINGTON, S.C. (WBTW) – Earlier this week, Darlington county council approved openings for two jobs at the Darlington County Detention Center.

As we previously reported, a Manpower Study by the South Carolina Department (SCDC) of Regulations revealed the jail did not comply with the Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA) regulations.

The detention center needs to fill 9 openings to meet the state regulations.

“We’re still 7 from being in full compliance but we’re able to show the state that we are making an effort to meet that standard,” Said Darlington County Sheriff Wayne Byrd.

The staff shortage creates concerns for the safety of inmates and staff.

Sheriff Byrd said SCDC is working with the center as long as the agency sees progress.

Sheriff Byrd said, “The idea behind these two positions is to show them that we know we have to do it, we’re trying to work toward that goal. They are good enough to say, as long as you’re working toward it. We are going to work with you.”

The new officers’ salaries will come from the Sheriff’s Office and Detention Center budgets.

Count on News13 to let you know when the county will take applications for those positions.