Table of Contents

Former Columbia Police Officer Charged with Assault, Misconduct in Office

By James Seidel | Broken Badges Series | CC News Network

COLUMBIA, S.C. — A former Columbia Police Department officer has been charged with Assault & Battery 2nd Degree and Misconduct in Office, marking the latest scandal to hit South Carolina law enforcement.

The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) announced the charges against Caleb Oshia Hickmon-Payne, 26, on March 12, 2025. The Columbia Police Department requested SLED to investigate the allegations, which resulted in Hickmon-Payne’s arrest.

Charges and Investigation

According to SLED’s official statement, Hickmon-Payne’s charges stem from actions taken while on duty as a law enforcement officer. Specific details regarding the alleged assault and misconduct were not immediately disclosed, but the case will be prosecuted by the 5th Circuit Solicitor’s Office.

The former officer was booked into the Alvin S. Glenn Detention Center in Richland County following his arrest.

Pattern of Misconduct in South Carolina Law Enforcement

Hickmon-Payne’s arrest is the latest in a troubling series of scandals involving law enforcement officers across South Carolina. His case joins a growing list of officers charged with misconduct, excessive force, and criminal activity—raising serious concerns about accountability and oversight within the state’s police departments.

This incident underscores ongoing calls for greater transparency, independent oversight, and stricter enforcement of ethical standards in South Carolina’s law enforcement agencies.

Where Does SLED Stand on Other Investigations?

While SLED acted swiftly in charging Hickmon-Payne, other cases involving law enforcement misconduct have dragged on for months or even years without resolution.

One high-profile case is that of Becky Hill, the former Colleton County Clerk of Court, who faces allegations of jury tampering and fund misuse but has yet to face formal charges. Despite mounting evidence and public outcry, Hill remains free, while SLED’s investigation into her conduct appears to be moving at a snail’s pace.

This disparity in enforcement raises the question: Why does SLED act swiftly in some cases while delaying others?

Next Steps

Hickmon-Payne’s case will now proceed to court under the 5th Circuit Solicitor’s Office. If convicted, he could face significant penalties, including prison time and a permanent ban from law enforcement.

As South Carolina grapples with continued police misconduct, CC News Network’s Broken Badges series will continue to expose corruption, misconduct, and the fight for accountability in law enforcement.