"S" is for South Carolina Law Enforcement Division. The origins of the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) date back to 1947. Governor Strom Thurmond issued an executive order creating the organization with statewide authority. Thurmond’s actions came at the behest of sheriffs and police chiefs seeking a centralized agency fashioned after the FBI, whereby manpower, technical assistance, and expertise could be utilized. From its fledgling beginnings of fifteen employees, the agency has grown to more than 500 sworn and civilian employees. SLED provides investigative and technical assistance to law enforcement agencies on major felony crimes.It also provides support services in regulatory functions involving alcohol and gambling enforcement, concealed weapons permits, and private security registration. In addition the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division maintains a large crime lab and provides a centralized repository for criminal records.
"S" is for South Carolina Law Enforcement Division
SC Public Radio
