How can I obtain a Concealed Weapons Permit (CWP)?
top
SLED conducts an extensive background examination of all applicants
prior to a CWP being issued. To obtain an application, you may write: SLED Regulatory
Department, P.O. Box 21398, Columbia, S.C. 29221. Learn more at the
Concealed Weapons Permit page.
Can a SLED agent stop me for speeding?
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Yes, a SLED agent has statewide law enforcement authority. However,
agents do not engage in traffic enforcement unless specifically requested by the
Highway Patrol or local law enforcement agency, or must act to prevent an accident
or a situation that would endanger the public.
Where can I get information on crime
in South Carolina? top
SLED's Uniform Crime Reporting Department collects and disseminates
crime data from all law enforcement agencies in the state. The UCR department can
be reached at 803-896-7016. Some information is available online at the
Crime Reporting & Statistics page.
How can I get SLED to investigate a
crime? top
SLED serves as the official investigative arm of the Governor and
also handles investigations for the Attorney General, circuit solicitors and other
law enforcement agencies. Requests for local investigations should be directed to
the law enforcement agency that has jurisdiction over the area where a suspected
crime may have occurred. If local agency officials need SLED assistance in the matter,
a request is made and agents will be assigned. SLED does not take investigative
requests from private citizens or organizations except under extraordinary conditions.
How can I get a job with SLED?
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From time to time, job positions (sworn and non-sworn positions)
become available at SLED and are routinely posted or advertised in an appropriate
manner as required by South Carolina law and regulations. All applicants, regardless
of position, must undergo a rigorous background examination. For an employment application,
contact: SLED, c/o Human Resources Department, P.O. Box 21398, Columbia, S.C. 29221.
Visit the state jobs website
Where do I go to get a criminal record check?
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SLED serves as the central repository for all criminal records in
South Carolina and can provide detailed in-state criminal histories. Criminal history
record screening costs $25 (Money orders or Company checks only--NO cash or
personal checks) per search unless for a charitable organization as defined
by state law. This information can be obtained from this
web site or by visiting SLED's Central Records Department, 4400 Broad River
Road, Columbia.
How do I report an alcohol or video poker violation?
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Since 1996, SLED has been authorized to enforce alcohol and video
poker laws and regulations in South Carolina. Suspected violations can be reported
by calling SLED's Alcohol/Video Poker Enforcement Department, at (803) 896-7400.
You also may send your information to: SLED, c/o Alcohol/Video Poker Enforcement
Department, P.O. Box 21398, Columbia, S.C. 29221.
Can I find out what a suspicious substance
is at the SLED lab?top
No. SLED conducts analyses of substances dealing with suspected criminal
matters only for law enforcement agencies. Requests for analyses are not taken from
private citizens. Suspicious substances should be reported to your local law enforcement
agency.
Who can tell me how to become a private detective?
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Under state law, SLED is authorized to maintain records on and regulate
all private detectives and private security companies doing business in South Carolina.
Private detective applicants must undergo a rigorous background investigation. Applications
can be obtained by writing: SLED, c/o Regulatory Department, P.O. Box 21398, Columbia,
S.C. 29221. Some information is available online at the
Private Investigations page.
Why isn't SLED's telephone number found
in the front of the phone book? top
SLED is not a first-response agency unless specifically requested
by a local law enforcement agency. SLED serves as a backup to sheriff's offices
and police departments statewide.
Can my child's school class tour SLED
headquarters? top
While tours generally are not conducted on a regular basis at SLED,
some areas at SLED are accessible for small tour groups if arrangements are made
in advance. Areas such as SLED's Forensic Laboratories and the State Crime Information
Center are not open for public tours. For further information, you may call SLED's
Community Relations Department at (803) 896-7247.
Where is SLED located? top
SLED is located at 4400 Broad River Road (also known as J.P. Strom
Boulevard, which was named after the late longtime SLED Chief). The location is
approximately 1 mile from Interstate 26 and can be reached easily by exiting off
Piney Grove Road or St. Andrews Road and traveling east for about one mile before
reaching Broad River Road. If on Piney Grove Road, turn right onto Broad River Road
and SLED is a half-mile down on the left. If on St. Andrews Road, turn left onto
Broad River Road and SLED is approximately 1 mile down on the right.
What is an accredited law enforcement
agency? top
SLED is accredited by CALEA (Commission on Accreditation for Law
Enforcement Agencies), and was the second state investigative agency to receive
such an honor. To achieve accreditation, an agency must prove that it meets high
standards in operations and procedures as required by CALEA (an organization that
is made up of law enforcement peers nationwide). Additionally, the SLED Forensic
Laboratory is accredited by ASCLD/LAB (American Society of Crime Laboratory Directors/
Laboratory Accreditation Board), a prestigious crime lab review organization.
Can I get my fingerprints done at SLED? top
Fingerprinting is done at SLEDs Crime Information Center in Columbia
from 8:30AM until 4:00PM Monday thru Friday. A valid ID is required.