South Carolina sheriff takes leave of absence after domestic violence charge

COLLETON COUNTY, S.C. (WCIV) - Colleton County Sheriff Andy Strickland has placed himself on leave following his arrest Saturday on a domestic violence charge.

This time will allow me to heal, and self-reflect on myself," Sheriff Strickland said in a statement. "I will strive to be stronger, and better at serving the citizens of Colleton, and my employees upon returning."

Sheriff Strickland says Chief Deputy Buddy Hill will serve as the Colleton County Sheriff's Office top authority during his absence.

The sheriff's office says the leave of absence is in line with standard policy.

Strikland was charged with second-degree criminal domestic violence Saturday. WCIV reported an affidavit stated that on Thursday around 10 p.m., Strickland assaulted a household member by punching them in the face multiple times. The affidavit added that the strikes caused "moderate bodily injury" and that the person also hurt their arm while trying to protect their face.

Authorities told WCIV that Strickland then took possession of the person's cellphones, preventing them from reporting the incident or receiving emergency medical assistance.

The affidavit continued that Strickland also damaged a vehicle that the household member tried to flee in.