Former deputy in training arrested on charges of criminal sexual conduct with a minor

RICHLAND COUNTY, S.C. (WOLO)– Richland County Sheriff Leon Lott says a former deputy in training was arrested on charges of criminal sexual conduct with a minor.

Kenneth Edmonds arrested on charges of criminal sexual conduct with a minor, says RCSD. (Photo: Richland County Sheriff’s Department)

On Thursday, Aug. 13, RCSD was notified by SLED that arrest warrants were obtained for Kenneth Edmonds, 38, during an investigation.

RCSD cooperated with the investigation and Edmonds was immediately terminated from employment, according to the sheriff’s department.

On Friday, Aug. 14, Edmonds was placed under arrest by SLED and booked in to the Lexington County Detention Center.

Edmonds was employed by the Richland County Sheriff’s Department since January of 2026, and was in training to be a deputy.

“I am disgusted that someone entrusted to wear this uniform could commit such a reprehensible offense,” says Sheriff Lott. “He has betrayed the badge, our agency, and the trust of the community we serve.”