RCSD announces the passing of a former deputy

COLUMBIA, SC (WOLO)– The Richland County Sheriff’s Department announced the passing of Colonel Joseph “Red” Lanier, Jr., a former deputy with the department. He was 85-years-old. Officials say Lanier, known as “The Colonel” for his grandfatherly nature, passed away on Sunday.

The sheriff’s department recognized Lanier’s dedication to service, which lasted his whole life. Lanier served in the Marine Corps, was the President of the South Carolina Law Enforcement Association, worked with the South Carolina Highway Patrol and was actively working with the Richland County Sheriff’s Department Project Hope Program, helping the elderly.

“It’s a sad day when you lose a friend” said Sheriff Lott “because that’s what Colonel Lanier was too many of us.” “We lost a great man.”

Lanier’s grandson, Joseph “Jody” Lanier IV, became a deputy with the Richland County Sheriff’s Department in 2015.