Governor McMaster Requests Investigation into Charleston County School Board Misconduct
Governor Henry McMaster initiated a months-long investigation into the Charleston County School Board, which has culminated in a report from the South Carolina Office of the Inspector General detailing significant misconduct and dysfunction. The report highlights that an unnamed board member disclosed confidential information to media outlets, violated board policies, failed to report taxable income, and fraudulently billed the district as a vendor. This board member, identified as Darlene Roberson through state vendor searches for 'Next Level,' allegedly used her position to gain an unfair advantage in contractual affairs. The investigation also uncovered broader issues within the board, including members using outside legal counsel without full board approval, incurring tens of thousands of dollars in legal fees, and engaging in arguments and political actions that negatively impacted operations. The Inspector General has recommended that Governor McMaster consider removing the implicated board member.