Governor Henry McMaster has taken action following the indictment of Williamsburg County Sheriff Stephen Renard Gardner. In response, Governor McMaster issued Executive Order 2025-13, which suspends Gardner from his position and appoints Clemson Wright, Jr. as the interim sheriff.
Clemson Wright, Jr., a lifelong resident of Williamsburg County, will serve in this role until one of three conditions is met: Gardner is acquitted, the indictment is resolved in another manner, or a new sheriff is elected and qualifies in the upcoming general election for county sheriff.
Wright brings extensive experience to his new position. Since 2018, he has been a special agent with the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division. His career in law enforcement began in 2009 with the Williamsburg County Sheriff’s Office as a correctional officer before being promoted to deputy. Additionally, he has served as a patrol officer with the Kingstree Police Department and as a South Carolina Highway Patrol Trooper.
