Attorney General Merrick Garland’s visit to South Carolina underscored the Justice Department’s commitment to reducing violent crime. Addressing law enforcement officials, Garland praised partnerships between federal, state, and local agencies, emphasizing the success of initiatives that led to a 5.8% drop in South Carolina’s violent crime rate from 2022 to 2023. He highlighted major drug and gun trafficking cases, thanked law enforcement for their service, and announced $36 million in grants to strengthen crime prevention and community safety programs statewide.
Garland remarked, “This U.S. Attorney’s Office is the face of the Justice Department here in South Carolina…and the work being done is making a difference.” He cited a reduction in crime not only statewide but also across 88 cities nationally. However, Garland also acknowledged that challenges persist, particularly in combating drug trafficking and gang violence. The grants announced will help fund law enforcement hires, crime prevention efforts, and support for victims of violent crimes.
The Attorney General concluded by reinforcing the need for continued collaboration: “We remain committed to providing our law enforcement and community partners with the resources they need to protect people across this state.” This visit serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts to improve public safety and ensure the Justice Department’s mission to uphold the law and protect civil rights is fulfilled.
As of the most recent data, South Carolina ranks among the higher violent crime rate states in the U.S. The state’s violent crime rate stands at approximately 491.3 incidents per 100,000 residents, which is notably higher than the national average of around 380.7 incidents per 100,000
Although there has been a recent decline in crime rates in the state, South Carolina still faces challenges in combating violent crime across its communities.
