News Summary

Sheriff Marty Sawyer has voiced serious concerns about budget shortfalls affecting the Aiken County Sheriff’s Office for the upcoming fiscal year. During a recent budget work session, it was revealed that significant funding needs were not met in the proposed budget, leading to a shortfall of several million dollars. Key requests include funding for technology, law enforcement operations, and personnel, crucial for maintaining public safety. The Aiken County Council is currently reviewing the budget proposal ahead of the fiscal year’s start on July 1.

Aiken, SC – Sheriff Marty Sawyer has raised significant concerns regarding budget shortfalls for the Aiken County Sheriff’s Office in the proposed budget for the fiscal year 2025-2026. The County Administrator, Brian Sanders, presented the draft budget to County Council on May 6, 2025, prompting discussions about critical funding needs for law enforcement.

During a budget work session held on May 20, 2025, the Sheriff’s Office had an opportunity to request revisions to the proposed budget. Sheriff Sawyer emphasized that the initial draft did not sufficiently cover many of the office’s critical funding needs, resulting in a shortfall amounting to several million dollars.

The Sheriff’s Office identified several areas where funding was inadequate. They noted that essential funding was omitted outright, and for some budget items, the amounts received were significantly lower than requested. Much of the requested funding was deemed essential for complying with various state and federal laws, as well as Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) mandates.

Budget Requests and Allocations

Among the most pressing needs highlighted by the Sheriff’s Office was a request for $3,446,631 dedicated to technology and equipment, of which only $1 million was allocated in the proposed budget. Items such as body cameras, in-car cameras, and Tasers were marked as “beyond critical” and nearing the end of their operational life. Additionally, mobile data terminals are out of support and warranty, necessitating their replacement to ensure continued service effectiveness.

For law enforcement operations, the Sheriff’s Office requested $1,752,234 but was allocated merely $94,500. One of the major requests included $850,000 for the purchase or leasing of new vehicles, including light trucks, a point acknowledged by County Council Chairman Gary Bunker, who mentioned that there might be alternatives for funding this request through the Capital Project Sales Tax.

The Sheriff’s Office also emphasized a need for increased personnel, requesting $569,376 to hire additional staff, including general counsel and two crime scene deputies. In the area of technical services, a request for $951,649 saw only $839,000 allocated in the budget. Furthermore, critical needs for the detention center reached $1,862,136, with $1,781,000 earmarked in the latest budget draft.

Next Steps in the Budget Process

The Aiken County Council is currently revising the proposed budget, with the need to approve three readings of an ordinance before the finalization of the budget. The next fiscal year begins on July 1, 2025, compelling the Council to ensure that any deficiencies in funding are adequately addressed before that date.

Several other elected officials participated in the work session on May 20, including Aiken County Coroner Darryl Ables and Probate Judge Tonya Marchant. Their involvement underscores the collaborative nature of local government regarding budgetary allocations and priorities.

Conclusion

The discussion surrounding the budget highlights the ongoing challenges faced by law enforcement agencies in securing necessary funding for critical operations. Sheriff Sawyer’s concerns serve as a timely reminder of the financial needs essential for maintaining public safety in Aiken County.

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Aiken County Sheriff Raises Concerns Over Budget Shortfalls