Former South Carolina police chief sentenced for drug, gun charges

COLUMBIA, S.C. — A former South Carolina police chief was sentenced to 30 months in prison for using drugs and illegally owning guns.

News outlets report former Columbia Police Chief Randy Scott was sentenced Wednesday. He pleaded guilty in August to drug and gun charges.

Scott was chief from 2011 to 2013 but resigned, stating he struggled with post-traumatic stress disorder.

Prosecutors say Scott was arrested after a tip led police to his home, where they found guns and drugs. Scott later admitted to using cocaine and methamphetamine. It’s illegal to use narcotics and have guns.

Scott says he used drugs because he was ashamed to seek mental health treatment.

Scott’s attorney requested he enter a drug treatment program instead of prison. Judge Terry Wooten denied the request but gave Scott the lowest sentence.

Associated Press