Harrell heads SC Criminal Justice Academy
By Mike Cox MWC423@bellsouth.net

Photo by Mike Cox The newly appointed S.C. Criminal Justice Academy director, Hubert Harrell, with two of his most trusted advisors, Elvis and Annie (r).

Richland County's Chief Deputy isn't a history buff. He doesn't care too much about ancient Greek warriors or strategic errors made in WWII. He thinks "history is important when we can learn from it".

Considering how much history Hubert Harrell has made you'd think it would matter more. He was the first African American Under Sheriff in Berkeley County and the first African American Chief Deputy in Richland County. Now Harrell has been named to replace William R. Neal and become the first director of the South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy who is African American.

Harrell recognizes the importance of setting precedents but feels there are more important issues. "I understand I am the first. What is important is that I won't be the last," the chief says. "Being first at something like this means you are opening doors."

Harrell spent 24 years in the Navy before retiring and entering law enforcement. He has been involved in police work for 17 years; 11 as the Richland County Sheriff 's top aide. He manages departmental issues, develops and oversees the budget process, and handles the sometimes tricky interaction with the Richland County Council. In his spare time he earned two masters degrees.

The Criminal Justice Academy was created in 1970, as part of SLED. The academy became independent two years later and stayed that way until 1993 when it was brought under the Department of Public Safety. In 2006 the SC Legislature once again made SCCJA independent. The academy offers advanced and specialized training for police officers and graduates 18 basic law enforcement and 13 basic jail classes each year.

Harrell brings a passion for teaching and a talent for organization to the SCCJA. He feels he is the "best fit for the state right now" and wants to ensure all trainees attending the academy leave with the best possible background for doing their job.

So what motivates a decision like this? The only job change mentioned by Harrell recently has been retirement to Moncks Corner at some point down the road. Why would this bear of a man with a honey jar demeanor leave the security of a position he knows well to take on such a challenge?

"I've received a lot of support in my life and been able to accomplish many things. It is time for me to give something back. This position enables me to do that. We need to be willing to step up and serve in any way we can for our state and for our children."

Harrell credits his wife Kathy for what he has become. Her support has been invaluable. In addition, Sheriff Leon Lott has always encouraged his chief deputy to reach a little higher and to make history. His reputation within the law enforcement fraternity was also instrumental in his selection.

He also wants this new position to "provide my grandchildren with something to be proud of. They can look at what I've done and realize they are capable of anything."

Harrell will continue as Richland's Chief Deputy until this year's budget process is complete and Sheriff Lott is through the primary. He is also already on the job at SCCJA, learning as he goes.