Marlboro County, SC – The Marlboro County Sheriff’s Office has confirmed that deputies responded to a verbal domestic dispute at the residence of Josh Goff, located in the McColl area of the county. The incident, which occurred recently, has prompted an external investigation due to Goff’s former role as a School Resource Officer (SRO) with the department.

At the time of the incident, Josh Goff was employed by the Marlboro County Sheriff’s Office in his capacity as an SRO, a role that positioned him within the community’s educational environment. However, Goff is no longer employed with the sheriff’s office, as confirmed by departmental officials.

To ensure the integrity of the investigative process and to eliminate any perception of bias or internal interference, Chief Deputy Larry Turner has formally requested that the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) assume control of the investigation.

“In the interest of transparency and public trust, we have asked SLED to lead this investigation,” said Chief Deputy Turner. “Given that Mr. Goff was an employee of this department at the time of the incident, it is critical to avoid even the appearance of partiality or internal conflict. This approach ensures that any findings are credible and rooted solely in fact.”

SLED Steps In

The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division has acknowledged the request and has agreed to conduct a thorough and independent review of the circumstances surrounding the domestic dispute. At this time, the dispute is classified as verbal only, with no indication that physical violence occurred. However, law enforcement officials emphasize that all domestic-related incidents are taken seriously, regardless of whether they escalate into physical altercations.

SLED agents are expected to gather witness statements, review any relevant bodycam footage, and examine the context of the call that prompted the response. As with all cases under SLED’s jurisdiction, findings will be presented transparently, and any potential criminal charges or administrative recommendations will be made based on the evidence.

Sheriff’s Office Statement

The Marlboro County Sheriff’s Office issued a public statement to reinforce its commitment to accountability and to dispel any public concern about the internal handling of the case:

“The Marlboro County Sheriff’s Office remains steadfast in its commitment to accountability, transparency, and public trust. While Mr. Goff is no longer with our agency, the seriousness of any incident involving a former law enforcement officer—especially one serving in schools—demands a clear and impartial review. We have full confidence that SLED will conduct a comprehensive investigation.”

Community Reaction and Importance of Transparency

The news has sparked discussion within the Marlboro County community, particularly due to Goff’s former position in schools—a role that traditionally demands a high degree of public trust and moral responsibility. While no criminal charges have been filed, some community members have expressed concern about the broader implications of the incident, especially in terms of vetting and oversight of school-based officers.

By turning the investigation over to an external agency, the Sheriff’s Office has made clear its intention to remove any possibility of internal bias or mishandling, particularly in a case involving one of its own.

Moving Forward

As the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division continues its investigation, the Marlboro County Sheriff’s Office has pledged to cooperate fully and provide all necessary resources to ensure the truth is uncovered, and justice—if necessary—is served.

The department has also reassured the public that no current threat exists in relation to the incident and that measures are in place to maintain safety and transparency throughout the process.

SLED will release its findings at the conclusion of the investigation, and any further disciplinary or legal actions—if warranted—will be made in accordance with state law and departmental policy.

This story will be updated as more information becomes available.