Williamsburg County sheriff, ex-administrator to face arraignment on charges

A state grand jury returned a nine-count indictment naming Sheriff Stephen Gardner and former County Supervisor Tiffany Cooks who face accusations of public corruption and other charges. (Live 5/File) COLUMBIA, S.C. (WCSC) - The now-suspended sheriff of Williamsburg County and the county’s former supervisor are expected to appear in a Columbia courtroom Friday morning to face multiple criminal charges.

A state grand jury returned a nine-count indictment naming Sheriff Stephen Gardner and former County Supervisor Tiffany Cooks who face accusations of public corruption and other charges.

The two will appear before Judge Heath Taylor for their first appearance.

Gardner and Cooks both face charges of criminal conspiracy, misconduct in office, and money laundering, according to court documents. Gardner is also charged with receiving anything of value to influence action of a public official and acceptance of rebates or extra compensation. Cooks also faces charges of offering anything of value to influence action of a public official and embezzlement.

The sheriff and former supervisor conspired in a scheme to improperly pay thousands of dollars of government funds to Gardener, according to the indictments.

The indictments also mentioned that Gardner “secretly obtained” and Cooks “secretly provided” personal profit and benefit to Gardner by having government funds more than his salary, improperly paid to him.

Gov. Henry McMaster suspended Gardner by executive order on Wednesday and appointed Clemson Wright Jr. to serve in his office, Attorney General spokesman Robert Kittle said. Wright will serve as Williamsburg County sheriff until Gardner is acquitted, the indictment is disposed of or until a new sheriff is elected and qualifies in the next general election for the county sheriff position.

The hearing is expected to take place at 10 a.m. at the Richland County Courthouse.

Williamsburg County sheriff, ex-administrator to face arraignment on charges

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