The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) confirmed on Dec. 15 that it is conducting two active criminal investigations involving Mike Skinner, the elected treasurer of Jasper County.
According to SLED, the investigations involve alleged threatening communications and the possible misuse of county funds.
Investigation into alleged threatening comments
SLED spokesperson Renee Wunderlich said the agency was first contacted by the Jasper County Sheriff’s Office on Dec. 8 to investigate alleged unlawful communication involving Skinner, a Jasper County government employee.
As part of the request, Jasper County provided a copy of a Telegram message allegedly sent by Skinner to Chris VanGeison, a current member of Jasper County Council. The message was heavily redacted due to its language but allegedly included statements suggesting gun violence toward other county employees.
The Jasper County Sheriff’s Office said it was made aware of the allegations and immediately contacted SLED to ensure an independent investigation.
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“Upon receiving this information, Jasper County Sheriff Chris Malphrus immediately contacted SLED to initiate an independent investigation,” said Public Information Officer Christian Felt.
Felt said SLED conducted multiple interviews and determined there was little or no evidence of a credible threat or imminent danger toward county personnel. However, the investigation remains active and ongoing.
Second investigation into alleged misuse of county funds
A second request for a SLED investigation was submitted by the Sheriff’s Office on Dec. 9, Wunderlich said. This investigation centers on allegations that Skinner inappropriately spent county funds.
After reviewing the request, SLED formally opened the investigation on Dec. 15. That investigation is also active and ongoing.
Special called meeting and council action
The Jasper County Council held a special called virtual meeting on Dec. 12 to address both the alleged threatening communication and the alleged misuse of county funds, according to the meeting agenda.
During the meeting, council members discussed Skinner’s unilateral decision to issue bonus payments to staff within the Treasurer’s Office. County officials said Skinner had previously been advised against this practice on constitutional and public policy grounds. The county stated that evidence related to the alleged misappropriation of public funds was submitted to SLED for review.
Council unanimously approved Resolution 2025-73, described as an emergency measure to enhance safety for county facilities, personnel, and resources.
“Council unequivocally condemns any form of political or workplace violence and publicly affirms its commitment to protect the life, health, and safety of all County employees,” the resolution states.
The resolution directed County Administrator Andy Fulghum to evaluate and implement safety measures in consultation with law enforcement, including Sheriff Chris Malphrus.
Government building closure
Following the meeting, the Jasper County Clementa C. Pinckney Government Building was closed for several hours on Friday. A sign posted at the entrance stated the building was closed, though no explanation was provided at the time. Citizens continued arriving throughout the afternoon before learning of the closure.
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When contacted by The Jasper County Sun Times, Fulghum cited the newly approved safety resolution as the reason for the closure. The building reopened to the public on Dec. 15.
Skinner responds to allegations
Skinner provided a written statement to The Jasper County Sun Times on Dec. 16 addressing the investigations.
In his response, Skinner characterized the situation as an effort by county officials to remove him from office for demanding transparency and accountability. He denied wrongdoing and said his actions and remarks have been taken out of context.
Skinner stated that his focus during his three years as treasurer has been protecting taxpayer dollars and improving standards of public service. He acknowledged that many county employees are dedicated public servants but claimed a small number resist scrutiny.
“Asking hard questions is not misconduct; it is a responsibility of public office,” Skinner said in his statement. He urged residents to allow the investigative process to proceed before drawing conclusions and said he remains committed to serving Jasper County.
Both SLED investigations remain active, and no charges have been announced at this time.