Richland County deputy arrested and fired

COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) — Richland County Sheriff Leon Lott says he has fired one of his deputies after he demanded a woman expose herself, then told him he would help her reduce her criminal charges.

Lott said 31-year-old Tracy Stephens also was arrested Thursday and charged with criminal sexual conduct and misconduct in office.

The sheriff says Stephens arrested a woman on May 15 for driving under the influence, driving with a suspended license and simple possession of marijuana charges. After she was booked, investigators say the woman complained that Stephens ordered her to expose herself and touch herself inappropriately.

Lott says Stephens was fired after an internal investigation. He had worked for the sheriff’s department for 18 months.

It wasn’t known if Stephens had a lawyer.