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Irmo Councilmember Arrested on Serious Charges Involving a Minor

By James Seidel | CC News Network

LEXINGTON COUNTY, S.C., — Irmo Town Councilmember and Mayor Pro Tem Erik Sickinger was arrested Tuesday by the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) and charged with multiple sex offenses involving a minor, authorities said. Sickinger faces three counts of criminal sexual conduct with a minor (second degree), three counts of contributing to the delinquency of a minor, and one count of luring or attempting to lure a child for sexual purposes.

According to arrest affidavits, Sickinger, 42, allegedly engaged in sexual activity with a 15-year-old male, who disclosed the incidents during a forensic interview. Warrants further allege Sickinger provided the teen with marijuana and alcoholic beverages. Investigators also claim Sickinger supplied marijuana to the victim prior to taking him to receive a tattoo, highlighting additional concerns of delinquency.

Irmo Councilmember Erik Sickinger Mugshot

Affidavits obtained from SLED detail multiple incidents of sexual battery and assert Sickinger intentionally enticed and lured the teenager for sexual purposes. Sickinger was 42 at the time these alleged incidents occurred.

Sickinger was elected to the Irmo Town Council in 2020 and appointed mayor pro tem in 2023. According to the Town of Irmo’s website, Sickinger had previously prioritized citizen engagement, neighborhood issues, and community participation.

Residents in Irmo expressed shock upon learning of the arrest. Christopher Chitwood, a local resident, described his reaction as disbelief.

“His relationship with the community is ruined, no matter what happens,” Chitwood said. “If the accusations are true, it’s truly indefensible. He’s not going to be able to function as a council person for Irmo.”

The Town of Irmo acknowledged Sickinger’s arrest, expressing disappointment and emphasizing cooperation with authorities.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the victim and their family at this time,” Irmo Mayor Barry Walker said in an official statement. “We are working diligently to ensure that town operations continue without disruption.”

Governor Henry McMaster’s office stated that according to state law, Sickinger cannot be suspended from his elected position unless indicted. No indictment has been issued yet, but an ongoing SLED investigation could change that status.

Sickinger was elected to Irmo Town Council in 2020 and became mayor pro tem in 2023. He previously emphasized community engagement and responsiveness to citizens’ concerns.

His bond was set at $100,000 during a court appearance at the Lexington County Detention Center, where he remains detained pending further legal proceedings. Sickinger has not publicly commented on the charges.

About Irmo, South Carolina

Irmo is a growing suburb located near Columbia, known for its close-knit community atmosphere. Incidents like these deeply affect public trust, underscoring the importance of transparency and accountability in local government.

CC News Network will continue to provide updates as the investigation progresses. Stay tuned for more developments on this story.

Resources and Support

Anyone with additional information or concerns about similar incidents involving minors is encouraged to contact local law enforcement or SLED. Support for survivors of sexual abuse is available through the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673). Confidential help is available 24 hours a day.

Broken Badges

CC News Network’s “Broken Badges” series takes an investigative look into cases of alleged police misconduct, corruption, and abuse of power across South Carolina. Led by veteran investigator and journalist James Seidel, the series uncovers stories often overlooked by mainstream media, highlighting the critical need for transparency and accountability in law enforcement. Through detailed reporting, exclusive interviews, and thorough analysis, “Broken Badges” gives a voice to victims and communities, holding powerful institutions accountable while striving for justice and change.